The other day I was scrolling through my Facebook feed on my lunch break and saw a cool post about a process Sweden is using to increase the amount of blood donated. They have started sending automatic text messages to blood donors when their blood has been used. The idea behind the program is to communicate to the donors just how important they are, encouraging them to come back and donate again. They have also allowed donors to sign an agreement to pester them with light-hearted threats reminding them to donate blood. One such threat is “We won’t give up until you bleed.”
Just like the Swedes you can send custom messages to your customers letting them know how important their health is, and afterwards thanking them for visiting. You can even send a little message to remind them to come back for their annual appointment or checkup. Below are a few fun ways to get your patients attention through a text message to their phone.
TextCards: TextCards are Inphonite’s own creation, they are like text messages that are a little more fun since they include the logo and a personal picture, of the patient’s provider, for instance. They are also more memorable than a regular text since it can be colorful. They say pictures are worth a thousand words, and we believe it! What do you think?
Upcoming Event reminders: Are you hosting a blood drive or maybe having a day dedicated to flu shots? Shoot out a quick text just like the Swedes, to your patients to remind them to come in. Remember though, you will need to have them give direct consent to get this information, so make there is a standard check box on your paperwork to receive marketing messages such as these.
Birthday Greetings: Sending a TextCard with the words, “Happy Birthday” can really mean a lot to your patients. It’s good to let them know they matter to you. Plus, without them being born you would not have them on your patient list. A slightly more fun idea instead of a generic birthday greeting, could be, “Another year older—time for another physical. Call to schedule after your HAPPY BIRTHDAY!”
Even though Sweden is on the other side of the world, they certainly have the right idea when it comes to making sure their patients are reminded. Keep it fun; the generic text can be boring, making patients inclined to delete it and forget. Making it something that will stick with them can make your customers stick with you!
