If you’ve got it, work it…
We stumbled upon a blog post from MGMA (Medical Group Management Association) today that really emphasizes what we believe and promote here at (e)Merge. The post tells us how important it is to not only have a website, but use it effectively to streamline your processes. Most medical practices and networks have an online presence, but don’t utilize all that this technology has to offer. Today, most patients expect to be able to find and contact... Read More
Have a Heart!
The idea is counter-intuitive: take the money in your marketing budget and give it away. But that concept is the highly-effective basis of cause-related marketing. Giving to charity not only supports those in need, it boosts your image as a company. According to a 2008 Cone study, 85% of Americans have a more positive image of a business when it supports a philanthropy they care about, and 79% say they would switch loyalties to a company that links... Read More
The Future of Healthcare: My Perspective from the AMGA 2010 Annual Conference
I had the privilege of attending this year’s AMGA (American Medical Group Association) Annual Conference in New Orleans, to learn and share with hundreds of colleagues in the medical group industry. Many expert presenters shared their insights and an outlook on the future of healthcare, including Dr. Atul Gawande, Bill George, Kenneth Novak and Dan Heath just to name a few. The overarching theme resonating through these gentlemen’s presentations... Read More
Are you the doctor of my dreams?
Speed dating is usually reserved for, well, dating. But now, one hospital is using that 5-minute, musical chairs meet-and-greet scenario to match patients and doctors. Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital has changed the standard marketing game for healthcare networks and physicians with a new program called “Doc Shop”. Over an hour luncheon, patients can meet handfuls of doctors and see which would fit their needs best. Those who have taken... Read More
Healthcare Leaders Recognize the Importance of Using Social Media to Connect with Patients
With huge growth in 2009, social media is not just a passing trend used by online marketers; it’s a real, effective method of communicating ideas, sharing information and connecting with people across all age and socioeconomic groups. Healthcare, while slower to adopt the social media wave than other industries, is coming to realize the potential social media tools provide to develop connections with patients, potential patients, along with other... Read More
