Want to improve patient retention? Don’t overlook the 4 keys to patient engagement outlined in our patient retention masterclass.
This educational video outlines four key levers for improving patient retention in a private medical practice:
1) Clear upfront expectations.
Set long-term expectations for patients from the beginning to ensure commitment to the treatment journey.
One of the most straightforward yet often overlooked strategies for patient retention is setting clear expectations from the start. When patients walk through your door, they should understand that their care is a long-term commitment. By communicating this upfront, you establish the understanding that achieving their goals will take time and ongoing effort.
For example, in the field of medical weight loss, patients might have a goal to fit into an old pair of jeans. As the provider, it’s your role to make it clear that this is achievable but will require a dedicated and sustained effort over several months. Setting these expectations early on encourages patients to stay committed to their treatment plan and prevents premature drop-offs.
2) Proactive communication.
Maintain consistent push-pull communication with patients, keeping them informed and engaged throughout their care.
Effective communication is key to building lasting relationships with patients. However, it shouldn’t be limited to simply responding to patient inquiries — proactive communication is essential. This involves both pushing information to patients and providing opportunities for them to pull resources as needed.
For instance, regularly sharing educational content, updates on their treatment progress, and reminders about upcoming appointments can keep patients engaged. At the same time, offering resources like exercise plans, meal guides, or self-care tips allows patients to take control of their own health journey. Proactively guiding patients through their care ensures they feel supported, informed, and invested in continuing their treatment.
3) Business model with ascension offers.
Start with introductory offers and gradually upsell patients to higher-value services as their needs evolve.
Incorporating a structured business model that includes both introductory and ascension offers is a smart way to retain patients while driving revenue growth. Start by offering an introductory package that brings patients into your practice and gets them engaged with your services. Once they’ve started their journey, you can offer higher-level services as they progress.
For example, a patient might begin with a basic medical weight loss program but, as they advance, may need additional services like personalized meal plans or advanced treatments. By having ascension offers ready, you can continue to provide value and meet their evolving needs, ensuring they stay with your practice over the long term.
4) Holistic patient education.
Provide comprehensive education that adds value, encouraging patients to stay engaged with your practice.
Patients value practices that go beyond treating symptoms and provide comprehensive education to support their overall well-being. Holistic patient education involves educating your patients not just about their immediate treatment, but also about broader aspects of their health journey.
By providing resources that cover nutrition, exercise, mental health, and self-care, you position your practice as a source of ongoing support. This creates a “sticky” relationship where patients feel more attached to your practice and are less likely to leave. The more value you provide through education, the stronger your patient retention will be.
**Medical providers, curious to learn more? Click here to register for our upcoming webinar, “How to Grow a Successful Patient-Centered Obesity Medicine Practice”
Article by: Austin Rhoads
Austin is the Co-Founder of Alterra Health and has been a leader in the development of weight loss education programs for patients and medical practitioners for the past ten years.
Alterra Health and its parent company Puente Holdings, LLC provide education, coaching, guides, support, and programs for patients. Individual results may vary. This article should not be construed as medical advice. For all clinical questions, please consult your medical provider.