In this Practice Growth HQ podcast episode, we delve into the essentials of growing a healthcare practice. Many principles can guide you—but none more critical than recognising that “it’s not about you.” This ethos, as highlighted by our guest, Dennis Dowdell, emphasizes that the best practices and interactions are those focused on service and the greater good.
It’s Not About You: Serving Others
In both life and business, success comes from contributing to the well-being of others. Just as rivers don’t drink their own water and trees don’t consume their own fruit, your talents and skills exist to benefit those around you. In healthcare, where the operative word is “care,” this principle is paramount. Your practice should revolve around enhancing patients’ lives, not just your own goals or accolades.
Understanding Over Telling: A Listening Strategy
Another key to growth lies in understanding your patients more than expecting them to understand you. By placing greater emphasis on listening rather than just delivering information, you can tailor your service to meet their exact needs. This means asking open-ended questions that allow your clients to express their concerns and aspirations fully. Questions like “What brought you to this area?” or “What do you live to do?” invite patients to share their stories, allowing you to provide care that resonates with their personal experiences.
The Art of Questioning: Unlocking Genuine Interactions
Questions can unlock deeper interactions and lead to a more comprehensive understanding of your patients. While time with each patient may be limited—perhaps only 15 or 20 minutes—the power of a well-placed question can transform a routine consultation into a meaningful encounter. Learning to ask open-minded questions can provide key insights into patient needs and preferences.
Remember, the art of questioning does not require lengthy conversations to be effective. It’s about making those crucial minutes count by focusing on what truly matters to your patients, thereby enhancing the overall patient experience and, ultimately, the growth of your practice.
Pledge to Serve: Implementing the Practice Growth Formula
As leaders and healthcare providers seeking expansion, adopting these outlooks and tools can help lay a robust foundation for your practice. By shifting focus from what you can gain to what you can give, growth, in all its dimensions, becomes a shared journey between you and those you serve.
Take the next step by exploring more insightful strategies and stories from our podcast:
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