People stay where they are appreciated. People respond to appreciation, even in trying circumstances. Test this yourself. The next time your spouse or significant other complains about feeling stressed, listen patiently and then say “Chris, I want you to know how much I appreciate all you are doing for us.”
By the way, this works for stressed colleagues too!
Patients want recognition that medical care is at best, inconvenient and at worst, painful. One way to recognize this in a positive way is to show your patients you appreciate them. Here are a few ways to show your appreciation:
- When your hospital has a capital campaign, use your donation to recognize patients: “Dr. Sandra Padgett, in appreciation of my patients.”
- When your patient has been inconvenienced, acknowledge the situation in a positive way. “I’m sorry you had to wait. Thank you for being so patient.”
- Just like dating, let your patient know if you want to see him or her again. Walk your patient to the check-out desk and say to your registrar: “I’d like to see Mrs. Maley again in six months.”
- If your staff calls patients a day or two prior to their appointments, listen to what is said during those calls. Don’t miss the opportunity to make a connection. Spend a few minutes to create an appreciative message such as: “This is Betsy Burgess from the Smith Medical Group calling. Dr. Morris and I are looking forward to seeing you tomorrow at 3:00 p.m.”
- A sincere statement such as: “I like having you as a patient” can be long remembered.