Is "Speed-Networking" Successful for Cardiology Marketing?

Physician Personality Important to Meet-and-Greet

It's a clever concept...physicians and prospective patients have three to five minutes to "meet and greet" in a non-clinical, semi-social environment. The "speed dating" format is being used in cardiology marketing by physician groups and hospitals to connect with the public and get acquainted, at least briefly. The atmosphere is casual and friendly; the objective is a mutual rapport.

This medical match-making model is new for most doctors and patients, but the early reports are that it's a promising ice breaker and a way to begin a relationship where trust, confidence and patient education are nearly as important to the patient as credentials, training and experience.

One such table-hopping event last week at a Palm Beach Gardens, FL, restaurant attracted a number of mainly 60-plus individuals and seven local cardiologists. And much like networking or dating, successful interaction had a lot to do with physician personality, reports the Palm Beach Post.

"It's like any relationship," says Dr. Rahul Aggarwal . "If there's a connection, there is a chance there it will be a long term relationship." Dr. Cyrus Kavasmaneck concurs. "My goal is to keep people out of the hospital," he says. "I want a long relationship with patients, but in the office, not in the hospital." Personality is also an important consideration, says Dr. Edward Mostel.

"Dr. X may be considered the greatest doctor in the world, but he also may be very nasty," he says. "I don't believe in that. You need to communicate. Some doctors connect with you better than others. Some physicians talk the way you talk."

Hospitals have sponsored similar events linking the public with various professions including cardiology, OB/GYN, and others.

We’d like to hear about your experience. Have you tried the “speed dating” approach? How did it work for you?

Reference: Palm Beach Post