New Delhi : New Delhi, India, August 05, 2024 — In the competitive world of healthcare, effective marketing can make or break a business. Despite the growing demand for healthcare services, many hospitals and clinics struggle to attract and retain patients. Industry experts reveal that common marketing pitfalls often prevent healthcare providers from achieving success. Enter HMS Consultants, India’s first-of-its-kind specialised healthcare marketing consultancy firm offering data-driven solutions tailored for healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and speciality practices across urban and rural India, to boost brand visibility, patient footfall, and revenue growth.
A New Era in Healthcare Marketing
HMS Consultants is revolutionizing the healthcare marketing landscape in India, led by the seasoned professional Akhil Dave, who brings over 24 years of experience in the field. Previously serving as the marketing head for some of India’s leading hospitals, Akhil recognised a gap in the market: smaller healthcare providers, clinics, and rural hospitals needed expert marketing strategies but couldn’t afford the high fees of large agencies.
In 2020, Akhil teamed up with Niraj Upadhyah, founder of Trizone Communications Pvt Ltd, to launch Trizone Healthcare Consultants, delivering comprehensive marketing solutions to mid-sized and large healthcare organisations. However, the need for more affordable and strategic guidance led to the birth of HMS Consultants, focusing on providing tailored, cost-effective marketing consultancy services to healthcare businesses across India.
HMS Consultants addresses the needs of healthcare providers by offering strategic support, helping them enhance brand visibility, increase patient footfall, and boost revenue. Akhil’s vision extends beyond his consultancy; he is also the Founding Chairman of the AHMP India Foundation, a network committed to transforming ethical healthcare marketing practices through education and innovation. This dedication positions HMS Consultants as leaders in ethical and effective healthcare marketing strategies.
15 Common Mistakes in Healthcare Marketing
To help healthcare businesses navigate the challenging landscape, HMS Consultants has identified 15 common mistakes that marketers should avoid:
1. Over-Reliance on Social Media
While social media is a powerful tool, relying solely on it can be a mistake. Healthcare marketing requires a multi-channel approach that includes traditional media and direct patient engagement.
2. Ignoring Internal Marketing
Engaging staff as brand ambassadors can significantly enhance marketing efforts. Internal marketing fosters a sense of inclusivity and encourages staff to contribute ideas and support marketing initiatives.
3. Neglecting Brand Ambassadors
Patients and their families are your most powerful advocates. Encouraging positive experiences and leveraging word-of-mouth marketing can amplify your brand’s reach.
4. Disregarding Patient Feedback
Patient feedback is invaluable for improving services and enhancing reputation. Establishing a robust feedback mechanism and addressing concerns promptly can build trust and loyalty.
5. Skipping Marketing Audits
Regular marketing audits provide insights into what’s working and what’s not. This continuous evaluation helps refine strategies and improve ROI.
6. Overlooking Traditional Media
Despite the rise of digital marketing, traditional media remains influential. Incorporating print, radio, and TV into your strategy can reach broader audiences.
7. Not Embracing Technological Advancements
Staying abreast of technological tools like AI and telemedicine can improve patient outreach and operational efficiency.
8. Ignoring MIS Reports
Management Information Systems (MIS) offer critical insights into daily operations. Utilising these reports can inform strategic decisions and optimise performance.
9. Poor Networking
Strategic networking with local businesses and communities provides valuable market insights and enhances brand presence.
10. Failing to Monitor Competitors
Keeping an eye on competitors helps identify market trends and opportunities for differentiation.
11. Neglecting Customer Interests
Understanding patient needs and preferences is crucial. Tailor your messaging to align with what your audience wants to hear.
12. Lack of Niche Focus
Establishing a niche in specific services or specialities can set you apart and attract targeted patient groups.
13. Overemphasis on Discounts
While discounts may attract patients, they can undermine perceived value. Focus on delivering quality care at competitive prices.
14. Underestimating Branding
Branding is more than logos and slogans; it’s about creating a lasting impression. Consistent branding efforts build trust and recognition.
15. Misusing Digital Marketing
Digital marketing extends beyond social media. Effective SEO, SEM, and content marketing are essential for maximising online presence.
Empowering Healthcare Providers
HMS Consultants is a strategic partner that offers expert guidance to optimise healthcare marketing efforts. Focusing on data-driven strategies, the firm empowers healthcare providers to execute effective campaigns that drive patient engagement and revenue growth.
“We understand the unique challenges faced by healthcare businesses and tailor our strategies to meet their specific needs,” explains Akhil Dave. “Our mission is to help providers succeed by offering actionable insights and innovative solutions.”
Join the Movement
As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, HMS Consultants remains committed to helping providers navigate the complexities of marketing. Healthcare businesses can achieve their goals and thrive in a competitive market by avoiding common pitfalls and embracing strategic planning.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Akhil Dave, Founder of HMS Consultants, at +91 990 410 4737 or email akhil@hmsconsultants.in.
Visit https://www.hmsconsultants.in to learn more about how HMS Consultants can help transform your healthcare marketing strategy.
