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Many physicians are missing the importance
of utilizing the web to communicate with their patients. A study
revealed 8 in 10 internet users have searched for health information
online. Aesthetic medicine physicians have the most to gain, since
patient education is a critical part of the building a successful
aesthetic medicine practice.
Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) November 7, 2006 -- According
to a Pew Internet & American Life Project study "Health Information
Online," eight in ten internet users have looked for health information
online, with increased interest in diet, fitness, drugs, health insurance,
experimental treatments, and particular doctors and hospitals. It
was also found that women younger than 65, with college degrees are
the most likely to use the internet for health information. Interestingly
enough this is same target customer for cosmetic procedures.
The WebMD Health Network averaged approximately 30 million unique monthly users
with total traffic of approximately 715 million page views during the June
2006 quarter. This was an increase in unique monthly users of approximately
20% from the prior year.
Both of these statistics confirm the importance of comprehensive websites for
physicians who primarily deal in non-reimbursable procedures, such as aesthetic
medicine. Since patient education is a critical component in building a successful
aesthetic medicine practice, the web gives the physician a great opportunity
to educate the patient before they get to the office.
"Physician web sites should be kept simple, but must have some critical information," says
Jeff Russell, Executive Director of the International Association for Physicians
in Aesthetic Medicine (IAPAM). "You need to identify your services with before
and after photos, benefits, possible side affects and risks. Try and get some
photos of your facility, and include information about you and your staff. The
goal is to build confidence in you and your practice," continues Russell.
It is estimated that over 50% of your patients will visit your web page before
they come in. "Don't forget to include your general practice information, like
hours of operation, address, phone number, parking information, and even a
map," says Russell.
Patients aren't the only ones using the internet, eMedicine.com provides physicians
and healthcare professional's detailed clinical information relevant to the
diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of medical conditions. "Aesthetic
medicine is such a fast growing field, we've given all IAPAM members access
to WebMD's eMedicine institutional database, it has by far the best information
on aesthetic medicine procedures" Russell says.
More often than not, your web site is the first impression that a potential
patient has of your practice. Make sure that the impression you give is favorable.
The information needs to be accurate and up to date, and reflect the professionalism
of your practice " says Eugene Kotlyar, Director of Business Development & Marketing
for EnhancedOffice.com
Including information about the procedures you perform on your web site is
a great way to help reduce the amount of time you spend educating your patient
in your office. This will allow them to be better prepared, and give you both
a more productive consultation.
This information has been taken from part of the course curriculum that is
taught at the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine's
2-day Aesthetic Medicine Symposium (http://www.aestheticmedicinesymposium.com). Physicians interested
in gaining more information regarding adding aesthetic medicine procedures
into their practice can download "6 Tips to Adding Aesthetic Medical Procedures
to your Practice" ebook at no charge from http://www.theiapam.com/ebook
About the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine
(IAPAM)
The International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine is a voluntary
association of physicians and supporters which sets standards for the aesthetic
medical profession. The goal of the association is to offer education, ethical
standards, credentialing, and member benefits. IAPAM membership is open to
licensed medical doctors (MDs), doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs), doctors
dental surgery (DDS/DMD), and the medical students studying for those degrees.
The IAPAM puts on a 2 day Symposium which provides the most current, comprehensive
aesthetic medical training program for today's leading physicians. The Symposium
will combine clinical hands-on training of the most profitable advanced skin
care procedures with proven strategies to successfully integrate Aesthetic
Medical procedures into your practice. More information on the Symposium: http://www.aestheticmedicinesymposium.com
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Jeff Russell
1-800-219-5108 x705
International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine
http://www.theiapam.com
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More Information: http://www.prweb.com//releases/2006/11/prweb471383.htm |
