An important component of a successful medical practice is community awareness. People within the community must be aware of your practice, providers and services in order to be a contender for their patronage. One of the best ways to generate excitement within a community is through events. Here are four tips to help your practice gain some valuable footing within your community. 

1. Chamber of Commerce – If you are not already members of your area Chamber of Commerce, get on board. Most chambers offer opportunities for ribbon cutting events and open houses and will advertise these events to their members. By getting to know other community business owners, you establish new potential referral sources.
2. Health Fairs – Depending on your medical practices specialty, health fairs may be an excellent way to familiarize others with your practice. By attending the event you have an opportunity to introduce prospective patients to you and your staff. Provide relevant freebies that have your business name and contact information as take home gifts for those who attend. If you are a dentist, offer free toothbrushes and toothpaste. Consider a giveaway for a service offered at your practice. Depending on your specialty, you may also be able to offer free screenings such as vision or blood pressure. Put the results on a business card so they have your contact information for future use.
3. Community Fundraising Events – Show your support for the community by supporting local fundraising events that are relevant to your industry. If there are no events in your community such as a 5K run/walk, start one.
4. Seminars – A great way to build a stronger, healthier community is through education. Offer complimentary educational events on topics that are relevant to your industry and interesting to your community. These events can be held off-site, but if possible, host them in your office. This gives prospective patients the chance to get an inside look not only at you and your staff, but also your practice.

By making multiple positive investments in your community your practice will become more present in the minds of those interested in your services. It will also make a lasting impression that you are a provider that cares, which can result in tremendous growth for your practice.