Patient Retention After Acquisition
Retaining patients is critical to practice success. Expect 10-20% natural attrition, but proper strategies minimize loss.
Understanding Patient Anxiety
Patients worry about:
- Quality of care continuity
- Staff changes
- Fee increases
- Relationship with new dentist
Communication Strategy
- Introduction letter 2 weeks before transition
- Meet-and-greet event
- Reassuring signage in office
- Personal calls to long-term patients
Continuity Measures
- Keep existing staff initially
- Maintain current hours
- Honor existing treatment plans
- Delay fee changes 6+ months
Trust Building
- Schedule extra time initially
- Listen to patient concerns
- Explain treatment rationale
- Follow up after major procedures
Expected Retention Rates
| Timeframe | Target Retention |
|---|---|
| 90 days | 85-90% |
| 1 year | 80-85% |
| 2 years | 75-80% |
Bottom Line
Patient retention depends on communication and continuity. Respect the patient-dentist relationship while establishing your own.
Retention strategy help? Contact DentalBridge.