As the virus situation continues to evolve worldwide, regular coronavirus communications to your patients is essential. Uncertainty is widespread. In addition, this can negatively affect your patients, staff and practice. Sharing information about the virus goes a long way in easing patient fears. Bookmark this page. PUMC is adding ongoing resources to help you ensure peace of mind for your patients and staff.
INITIAL CORONAVIRUS COMMUNICATIONS – WHAT ARE YOU DOING?
As a doctor, your advice is highly regarded. This is an ideal time to reach out to current and prospective patients. However, you should stick with the facts that are known about the virus. First, take the opportunity to tell patients how you are helping keep them safe. Information such as sanitizing techniques, extra cleaning, etc. helps reduce anxiety.
- Modify the PUMC starter message for Website or Eblast
- Action Steps for COVID-19 Patient Communications
Defining ways your patients can make safer decisions benefits everyone. So, coronavirus communications should include when to cancel appointments. Likewise, it is a good idea to cover when to keep an appointment. Note: discontinuing cancellation fees for the next few weeks may result in better patient decisions.
- Cancel an appointment if you have any symptoms of an upper respiratory illness.
- Reschedule an appointment for at least 14 days* after potential exposure to COVID-19. Higher risk people include individuals who have recently traveled to specific areas. Similarly, people who have taken a cruise or been around others with respiratory symptoms also have a higher risk.
- Keep surgery appointments if you are well. This is an ideal time for healthy patients to recover from procedures. Also, it is a good time for well patients to take advantage of non-invasive specials.
PROTECTING YOURSELF, LOVED ONES AND OTHERS
Many schools and businesses are encouraging online interactions. However, online is not possible for everyone. Help you staff and patients understand some of the most important ways they can protect themselves. The World Health Organization has many graphics and videos to download that you can use in your communications.
- Download video(s) if you use videos in your reception area
- Use graphics for website, eblasts, posters and social media
- Print PDFs (such as stress tips) for patient handouts
Patient communications is a vital part of your overall marketing strategy. Misinformation and anxiety result in poor decisions. Thus, it is more important than ever to be a trusted resource for your patients. Schedule ongoing coronavirus communications with patients and staff. PUMC will lead the way by drafting communications and sharing resources. Contact our team if you have questions about communications and marketing strategy.
*John Hopkins Study: The median incubation period of COVID-19 from exposure to the onset of symptoms is 5.1 days, researchers say, meaning the recommended 14-day quarantine period is a reasonable amount of time to monitor individuals for development of the disease.