How to connect and network with other direct primary care physicians

Business people know that networking is the most effective marketing strategy. Meeting and getting to know other professionals, whether in the same industry or in different types of businesses, can help the owner grow in both knowledge and connections. People are more likely to trust – and want to do business with – people they know. This strategy also applies to the direct primary care (DPC) physician.

Getting to know other DPC physicians can help you learn and grow in your practice. There are many ways to connect with other DPC physicians, virtually and in person.

Elation Health’s Direct Care Playbook offers helpful advice on using social media to reach out to patients as well as to other physicians. When considering the use of social media, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook, it’s important to think about what kind of resources and time are needed to commit to such a strategy.

Posting timely, relevant content is one way to bring exposure to your practice in the short-term. A more long-term strategy would consist of community building, first defining an audience and devising a strategic plan to engage with this audience over time.

When initiating any sort of online communication where patient information may be at risk, physicians should carefully avoid any HIPAA violations. Sensitive situations include posting images of patients without their consent, compromising patient confidentiality by posting identifying information, and communicating with patients via a social media platform.

Physicians Practice also advises you to create a relevant profile on social media, including your credentials and a professional photo, and to never offer specific medical advice on these platforms. You might also want to separate your professional pages from personal pages.

Of course, in-person connections can be very helpful to you as well. In-person connections can be made by joining professional associations and attending events such as conferences. Research organizations that meet in your area as well as those with events scheduled across the country. When attending these events, have an open mind about the connections you will make. You never know who you might meet that you can help or who can help you in your practice!