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Opened a new clinic? The real challenge: How do you actually get patients through the door?

Starting a new practice is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming when you're not sure how to fill those appointment slots. Well attracting patients to your new clinic doesn't have to be a mystery. You can grow your patient base with the right strategies, a bit of creativity, and a lot of consistency.

Here’s a fun, straightforward guide to help you get started on the right foot and attract new patients to your practice—whether you're a physiotherapist, dentist, chiropractor, or other healthcare provider.

1. Build a Solid Online Presence (Yes, You Need a Website!)

These days, a good website isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. Think of your website as the digital version of your practice. Patients are searching for healthcare services online, and if your practice isn’t easy to find, you could be missing out on potential clients.

Get a simple, user-friendly website up and running: Your website should be easy to navigate, clear, and informative. Include your services, location, opening hours, team members, and online booking options.

Local SEO is key: Make sure your site is optimized for search engines with local SEO. Keywords like “best chiropractor near me” or “affordable dentist in [your city]” will help your practice show up when patients are searching for services you provide.

Pro Tip: Also, make sure your practice appears on Google My Business. It's free, easy to set up, and can help people find your clinic on Google Maps and in local searches.

(Here’s the complete guide on how to start with GMB - Link)

2. Leverage Social Media to Connect with Your Community

The beauty of social media is that it allows you to engage directly with potential patients. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn allow you to showcase your expertise and build relationships with the people around you.

Share tips, behind-the-scenes content, success stories, and patient testimonials (with permission). The goal is to make people feel like they know you before stepping in your clinic.

Run ads targeting your local community. Facebook and Instagram ads can help you reach the people most likely to need your services.

The more engaging and approachable you are online, the more likely people will trust you when booking an appointment.

3. Partner with Local Businesses

Building relationships with nearby businesses can open the door to a whole new patient pool. When you collaborate with local gyms, wellness centers, or even coffee shops, you gain access to their customer base—people who are already in your neighborhood and might need your services.

Offer exclusive discounts to members of local gyms, sports clubs, or wellness centers.

Host educational events or workshops where you can provide valuable health tips and raise awareness of your practice.

Networking within your community helps you build credibility and word-of-mouth referrals.

5. Ask for Referrals and Reviews

Word of mouth is still one of the most powerful ways to get new patients. Once you’ve treated your first few clients, encourage them to leave reviews or recommend you to friends and family. Positive online reviews can significantly impact a new clinic’s success.

Ask for reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. These platforms are where potential patients go to check out your reputation.

Offer incentives for referrals—like discounts on future treatments or a small gift—for patients who send their friends or family your way.

When new patients hear positive things about your clinic from people they trust, they’re much more likely to book an appointment.

6. Invest in Paid Ads for Quick Visibility

Sometimes you need to boost your visibility quickly, and this is where paid ads can come in handy. Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Instagram Ads can all help you reach new patients right when they need you.

Use Google Ads to appear in search results when someone searches for a service you provide (like “chiropractor for neck pain” or “pediatric dentist near me”).

Run Facebook/Instagram ads targeting your local area, showcasing your services, patient testimonials, or special offers.

Paid ads allow you to target a very specific audience, meaning you’re only reaching people who are most likely to need your services.

7. Be Consistent with Follow-ups and Communication

Once you get a patient, you need to keep them! Follow-up emails or calls after their first appointment show you care and create a lasting relationship. Also, remind patients of their next visit and keep them engaged with health tips, new services, or promotions.

Send reminder emails before appointments.

Follow up with thank you messages after treatment, showing your appreciation for their business.

A little personalized touch goes a long way when it comes to building loyalty.

Ready to Get More Patients Through Your Door?

Attracting patients to a new practice takes time and patience, but by being visible, engaged, and helpful, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving clinic. Start by focusing on a few of these strategies, like building your online presence, offering promotions, and getting involved in your local community, and watch your patient base grow.

Need help getting started or have questions about marketing your clinic? Contact us today, and let’s take your practice to the next level!

Book a consultation call today!

DR PRANAV AGALE

FOUNDER & CEO

Pranav is a practice marketing consultant on a mission to help doctors streamline their practices and grow ethically. In 2013, he bootstrapped and founded Praxis360 to fuel his mission.