If you provide B2B services to a doctor or clinic, you know that this can come with unique challenges as well as rewards. The healthcare industry is booming and it’s one of the few recession-proof industries out there. People will always need to see doctors no matter what their situation, and if you’re a techie, then capitalizing on that fact by providing B2B services to the healthcare industry is a wise move, indeed. However, it can also come with plenty of hurdles.
Doctors notoriously can have a bit of a God complex, and clinics are notoriously understaffed and ill-organized. They’re lagging behind when it comes to adopting new technology, and sometimes that’s out of their control such as when HIPAA compliancy stands in their way. Whether your clients is an online doctor or a brick and mortar establishment, there are a few “hacks” when it comes to making this symbiotic relationship better.
In some instances, healthcare clients have pretty regular office hours such as dermatologists or non-emergency dentists. Other times, there’s around the clock care such as urgent care clinics. Choose your clients based on their common hours and don’t sign up for a client that needs 24/7 support if you can’t provide that. However, know that if you do provide around the clock support, your fees should reflect that.
This is particularly important if you’re a tech provider because, as you know, cloud technology can save time and money while improving efficiency, but healthcare providers are skeptical of moving into digital storage. Make sure you have a presentation that highlights the perks, addresses common concerns, and do your best to bring them up to speed with you.
In business, respect is definitely a two way street, but you might need to be the first party that treats others like you want to be treated. God complex or not, doctors deserve your respect because they’re a client (not because they’re an MD). Basic etiquette can go a long way, and it sets the foundation for a relationship based on mutual respect.
Doctors are unfortunately overworked, especially if they’re running their own clinic. It’s your job to make sure the business relationship is established with the parameters in writing. Don’t count on any verbal agreements.
Having a healthcare provider as a client can mean a steady and fruitful relationship, but only if it’s founded correctly.
