How would you recommend rehab professionals build working relationships with doctors for referrals? Many doctors may be partnered with hospital-based rehabilitation clinics and send patients to these clinics. As a physical therapist, how could I:
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Hey Shaun,
There are a few ways of going about this. Most of the relationships I have with physicians have happened from a combination of meeting them at the gym, and developing relationships with clinicians/coaches/athletes that can give me a warm opening. I’m sure cold calling works in some instances, but I am also not as likely to open emails or schedule meetings with people I don’t know. For the athletes I do have come to clinic, I try to send them back with good information on what is going on, and ask them to share their experience with the physicians as well. For my return to sport testing, I give them printouts that explain their testing and show their progress.
One of your best ways of getting your foot in the door is by having patients share their experiences with the physicians. It isn’t a bad thing at all to share with your athletes that you are trying to build these relationships and let them talk you up. I would also see if there are events being hosted in your town that physicians would attend. I have found a few journal clubs that happen on occasion as well as some meet ups for networking. I have made a few connections from attending chamber of commerce meetings that had other local coaches attending as well. It’s not just your patients that will be your advocates, reaching out to coaches and returning athletes ready to participate in their sport goes a long way.
The hard part is putting yourself out there. It’s not just meeting the physicians, but integrating yourself into the community.
Thank you for the advice. I have also considered bribing them with cinnamon rolls but that may only work for doctors named “Feigenbaum”.