Patient Loyalty plays a vital role in the success and growth of your practice. They provide a regular income stream, and they’re also likely to recommend you to their friends and family.
Everyone knows the importance of regular dental check-ups and hygienist visits, so if you’re finding that many of your patients visit your surgery once and never return, they’ve likely decided to go elsewhere.
You can take steps to ensure patients choose your surgery again the next time they require a check-up or treatment. Here are some ways to increase patient loyalty by ensuring that every person who walks through your door has the best possible experience from start to finish.
1. Offer A Warm Welcome
As 17% of the population has some degree of dental phobia, some of your patients will arrive at your surgery feeling apprehensive about their appointment. It’s important to make your waiting area pleasant and inviting. Ensure that your reception desk is easy to find, clean, and in good condition. This will help to create a smooth check-in process and a great first impression.
Invest in plenty of seating, so there’s enough space for everyone, even on busy days. Make sure your chairs are comfortable and space them out, so patients don’t feel cramped or crowded. Use shades of blue to create a calming environment, and if your waiting area lacks natural light opt for soft lighting rather than harsh fluorescents. Finishing touches such as a water dispenser and indoor plants will help patients to relax and feel at home.
2. Create A Comfortable Surgery Room
Just like in your waiting area, first impressions count. Using calming colours will help patients feel at ease, and keeping the surgery room clean and tidy is important. Storage solutions such as drawers and cupboards keep tools stored out of sight while also providing easy access to them when required.
Investing in a comfortable dentist chair will make the experience more pleasant for your patients, we know it’s so difficult to find high quality dentist chairs at the moment which is why we’re proud to have them in stock.
As well, keep your staff happy by investing in high-quality stools that can be adjusted to suit their height – keeping them comfortable on long days. Carry out regular checks to ensure that your equipment is working properly, and promptly replace or repair anything that’s not. This will provide a smooth, hassle-free experience and show that your surgery prides itself on providing superior levels of care.
Younger or more nervous patients may bring a parent, friend, or partner along to their appointment for moral support. Position chairs so your patient can see their loved ones during gaps in treatment and also ensure ample space to store bags and coats. Optimising your equipment and design will reassure patients that they’re in safe hands, and to create a comfortable surgery room, you can view our full range of products here.
Upgrade Your Technology
Advances in technology allow patients to gain an in-depth insight into the condition of their mouth and find out if there are any changes they need to make to their dental hygiene routine to improve this. Investing in the latest technology will also reassure patients that you will detect any underlying diseases or conditions early and therefore be easier to treat.
Patients want to be sure they’re receiving the best possible service, and new technology allows procedures to be carried out faster and with less discomfort. Those who find their visit to your surgery faster than expected and pain-free are more likely to choose you again in the future.
Make Appointment Booking Easy
Encourage loyalty by making it easy for patients to book their next appointment. Ensure that the reception desk is positioned so it’s easy for patients to visit on their way out, and you could even provide incentives for patients who book in again before leaving the surgery.
Plenty of space around your reception desk offers privacy, and the absence of a queue will make patients more inclined to book another appointment before they leave. Be sure to send a follow-up email thanking them for their visit, and provide a link for them to book their next check-up if they haven’t already done so.
Time For A Refresh?
If your practice is starting to look old or outdated, a refit and/or redesign is the perfect way to freshen things up and attract more repeat customers.
At Turn Key Dental, we have over 52 years of combined experience delivering bespoke refits for dental practices. Whether you want a full refit and/or redesign or just want to freshen up a single room, we’ll take care of everything from start to finish, including aftercare and product maintenance.
Get in touch to find out more about our services, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.