January 16, 2009
Ten Strategies to Increase Your American Medical Tourism Clients in These Economic Times
As we all know, the economy is the worst it has been in the last 30+ years. Consumer confidence continues to decline. International events preclude more international travel. And, the medical tourism industry is changing with:
· More focus on insurers/employers as entrees into key markets.
· Continued development of international insurance programs
· Deterioration of less stable companies
· Entrance of industry innovators
· Reevaluation of marketing methods
Therefore, in order to continue to maximize your marketing endeavors, – especially during these unstable economic times, we have compiled ten proven strategies for you to utilize when re-evaluating your American marketing plan:
1. Evaluate what your American clients want and don’t want. Conduct market research and truly assess the services that patients are researching and/or utilizing. Revise your marketing programs as appropriate.
2. Evaluate your existing marketing consultants. Are they promoting your brand image? Are they a help or a hindrance to your overall marketing goals? Review your personnel’s performance. Make adjustments as necessary.
3. Communicate to the right audience. A targeted approach nets more clients. Who are they? Where are they? Have you done your homework?
4. Be open to new approaches. Have you taken a look at SEO, PPC, WOM techniques?
5. Stick to your strategic marketing plan. Use patience when building up your brand awareness, especially in a market where consumers need to be educated about your product.
6. Market any financing options you may have as a way to attract more Americans in these tough times. Can they defer payments, receive credit or take advantage of bundled services?
7. Develop an internal marketing program for your existing patients. Newsletters, email campaigns, and events are a place to start.
8. Fortify relationships with American insurers and employers through networking and marketing. Utilize on-the-ground marketers to assist you in this process.
9. If you’re budget conscious, start small for now. Doing something now is better than doing nothing at all.
10. Keep Marketing! Now is not the time to stop. NOW is the time to take over market share from your competitors who may be leaving the marketplace.
