Giving Thanks for Our Patients: Tips for Building Stronger Relationships
Lisa Copeland, RDH, CSP, CVP
Author I Global Speaker I Speaking Coach I Gen X I IRONMAN I Passionate RDH
Halloween marks a special milestone for my husband and me as we celebrated our 32nd anniversary. As you can see we love to dress up and celebrate!
Over the years, we've developed a fun tradition: each year, we either treat ourselves to dinner at a new restaurant or stay home, cozy up by the fire, and wait for trick-or-treaters. This year, however, our plans took an unexpected turn. A sudden plumbing issue arose, and instead of a fancy dinner or a night in, our “anniversary gift” ended up being a brand-new water heater manifold! I know, romantic right? But despite the change in plans, we felt incredibly grateful to find a reputable plumber who could complete the work in a day.
This experience reminded me how life—and work—doesn’t always go as planned. In dentistry, we often face similar surprises, whether it's a last-minute schedule change, a sudden equipment issue, or an unexpected patient need. But through it all, one constant remains: our patients. They are the heart of our practice and the reason we do what we do. So, as we enter this season of gratitude, let’s take a moment to reflect on how thankful we are for the trust our patients place in us, their loyalty, and the opportunity we have to make a positive impact on their lives every day.
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time for dental practices to reflect on the importance of patient relationships. This season provides a unique opportunity to show gratitude to our patients, deepen connections, and enhance trust. Here are some effective strategies for dental professionals to express appreciation and build stronger relationships with their patients during the holiday season.
Personalize Your Communication
Each patient is unique, and personalized communication goes a long way in making them feel valued. Take a moment to send out holiday-themed messages to your patients, expressing gratitude for their trust in your practice. This can be a simple email or even a handwritten card. Mention specific milestones or treatments they’ve completed with you, showing that you pay attention to their journey. When patients feel remembered and appreciated, they are more likely to stay loyal and trust your recommendations.
Example:
Hi [Patient’s Name], as we approach the holiday season, we wanted to take a moment to thank you for being part of our dental family. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help you achieve a healthier smile, and we look forward to many more years of supporting your oral health!
Offer Special Holiday Discounts or Promotions
A small discount or promotion can be a thoughtful way to say “thank you” to your patients. Consider offering a discount on teeth whitening, a free sample of dental products, or a reduced rate on specific treatments during the holiday season. Not only does this show appreciation, but it also encourages patients to prioritize their dental health. Be sure to communicate these offers in a way that highlights their exclusive benefit for loyal patients.
Tip:
Frame it as a holiday gift to your patients, rather than a typical promotion. A message like “As a thank you for being a valued patient, enjoy 10% off our teeth whitening services this month!” makes patients feel special and appreciated.
Share Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season
The holiday season is full of treats and celebrations, which can impact dental health. Use this opportunity to communicate useful dental tips for Thanksgiving and beyond. Share advice on maintaining good oral hygiene during the festivities, and perhaps provide a small handout or digital guide on managing sugary snacks. When patients see that you care about their health beyond appointments, it strengthens your relationship with them.
Quick Tips:
Recommended by LinkedIn
Host a Patient Appreciation Day
Consider hosting a patient appreciation event at your office, where patients can stop by for refreshments, small giveaways, and an opportunity to chat with you and your team. Decorate your office with a warm, autumnal theme, and create a welcoming atmosphere that lets patients know how much you appreciate them. This type of event is a great way to build a sense of community, connect with patients on a personal level, and celebrate your shared commitment to their health.
Ideas for Giveaways:
Showcase Patient Testimonials and Success Stories
One meaningful way to express gratitude is by celebrating your patients’ achievements. With their permission, share testimonials or success stories that highlight their progress and commitment to their oral health. Showcase these stories on your website or social media as a tribute to your patients’ dedication. When patients see themselves celebrated by your practice, it reinforces their loyalty and shows that you value their contributions.
Example:
Meet [Patient’s Name]—since joining our practice, they’ve transformed their smile with [treatment]! We’re grateful to be part of their journey, and we’re so proud of their commitment to oral health. Thank you, [Patient’s Name], for trusting us!.
Conclusion
Building stronger patient relationships is about showing appreciation and genuinely caring for their well-being. By personalizing your communication, offering small tokens of gratitude, and celebrating patients’ successes, you can foster a supportive, trust-based environment that enhances both patient loyalty and satisfaction. This Thanksgiving, take a moment to thank your patients and let them know how much they mean to your practice. When patients feel valued, it creates a ripple effect that enhances every aspect of your practice—from positive word-of-mouth referrals to a welcoming, patient-centered atmosphere.
Connect with me to collaborate on more patient/team-building ideas.
Visit Communicate With Influence for more information.