Engaging patients and physicians is essential to the growth of any healthcare organization. Here two physicians discuss how to make those connections.
Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. We invite all spine surgeon and specialist responses. Next week's question: What will be the next big clinical innovation in spine surgery? What excites you most?
Please send responses to Anuja Vaidya at avaidya@beckershealthcare.com by Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 5 p.m. CST.
Question: What are some ways spine practices can engage existing and prospective patients or physicians?
William Taylor, MD, Director, Spine Surgery, Vice Chairman, Division of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Diego: Use your successful patients to build a network of people willing to speak up for spine surgery and you. I work with the Better Way Back program, who have been tremendous supporters of ours.
Brian R. Gantwerker, MD, The Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: If a surgeon or practice wants to engage, I would suggest focusing on the referring doctors in your community. Keep them happy. They are the customer as well.
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