As the competition in the dental sector increases, more and more
practices are implementing various strategies to improve the client
experience while making communication more effective. One of the
approaches being used is the application of digital signage
to add life to clinics. This article discusses the issues that an
ordinary practitioner would face when trying to switch their practice to
the digital world, how to overcome them, and how to implement digital
signs into practice.
The Impact of Digital Signage in Dentistry
Digital signage replaces dull posters and leaflets with interactive and informative material viewed on screens. For a dental practice, this change has a number of benefits such as:
- Increased Patient Interaction: Amuse and inform patients with engaging material as they are seated in the waiting area.
- Effective Communication: Use digital signs to showcase services, advertising campaigns, and bulletins seamlessly.
- Up-to-date Office Atmosphere: The adoption of technology displays the practice as being progressive, giving a good image to patients
Get in touch with us to learn how different types of digital signage can transform your practice for the better.
Obstacles When Using Digital Signage in Dentistry
Undoubtedly, digital boards in this strategy have disadvantages. One
major barrier that many dental practices might face when using this type
of signage includes:
Content Creation and Management
Creating and updating content is not the easiest of tasks and could easily consume a lot of time.
Technical Challenges
There might be a need to understand the technicalities of setting up and supporting digital signage systems.
Compliance and Privacy Issues
It is crucial to ensure that all the materials comply with healthcare regulations and patient confidentiality laws.
By acknowledging these challenges, practices should look for ways to
transform and stay one step ahead during the changeover to digital
signage.
Innovative Uses for Digital Signage in Dental Clinics
1. Health Education Information
With the rise of insurance companies, social media, dentists, and the
YouTube platform, patients have become more informed about different
dental procedures. Today's patients prefer to understand the treatment
they receive. Advanced animated videos can help illustrate how the
process will go step by step during the procedure. This is especially
important in raising awareness on dental implants, including gum care.
By demonstrating how such complicated surgical processes are done, it is
possible to calm the nerves of patients and encourage them to discuss
specific processes with their clinicians.
2. Individual Points of Agenda
It would be great to tweak patient experience by emphasizing patient
identifiers together with the type of procedure on digital displays.
Print materials have now become obsolete; it is now possible to promote
your procedures on OLED TVs, and the best part is that you can promote a
wide array of them, thereby aiding in the expansion of the practice.
Patients feel more appreciated when they receive personalized messages
and have a good share of information, which improves their satisfaction
rates.
3. Marketing for Added Services and Bonus Deals
Revenue can dramatically grow with the use of digital display boards
by informing patients about services like teeth whitening, veneers, and
various dental procedures focused on aesthetics. It is also possible to
schedule ad placements to serve the audience more appropriately.
Marketing a variety of products is likely to change patients’ general
perception about the practice, making them more likely to seek other
services, which in the end boosts growth.
4. Endorsements and Service Reports
In any healthcare practice, trust and credibility stand out as key
attributes. A good way to bolster them is to share testimonials from
actual patients. Videos of satisfied individuals endorsing the practice
after treatment can give hope to prospective patients about potential
outcomes. However, to maintain patient privacy, it is essential to
obtain the right approval before distributing any information.
5. Gamified Learning
While seated in the waiting room, children can play basic dental
hygiene games on a touch screen. Offering small rewards makes the visit
to the dentist enjoyable, creating a good perception about dental
visits. This can help instill good oral hygiene habits from an early
age.
6. The Dental Team
Informed patients are more relaxed patients, thanks to knowing who is
treating them and the credentials, expertise, and hobbies of the team
members. Patients relating to your team through pictures and
accomplishments increases loyalty and comfort while at your practice.
Such clarity can earn patients’ confidence and put them at ease during
appointments.
7. Oral Health Tips and Care
Your tips and suggestions should be fun and change regularly,
reaching out to patients with messages like, "Chew sugarless gum after
every meal to prevent cavities." Such innovative practices help
reinforce oral health care and portray your firm as a health-focused,
caring, and innovative practice.
8. Community Events and Involvement
Your digital signage can alert patients about your participation in
health fairs or charity events. Asking patients to get involved in such
efforts shows your dedication to social responsibility, which enhances
your reputation while strengthening the local community. Community
involvement can set your practice apart and build patient loyalty.
9. Policy Updates and Safety Measures
Keep patients informed about your office policies and the measures
designed to ensure their safety. Posting about new sterilization
policies and other issues showcases your concern for their interests.
Good communication can help prevent doubts and generate trust.
10. Seasonal and Holiday Greetings
Patients should see messages celebrating events like Oral Health
Month or National Children's Dental Health Month. This adds a personal
touch, making your practice look more inviting while showing that it
cares about cultural events, thereby improving patient experience.
Addressing the Digital Signage Challenges
Budget-Friendly Options
Begin with a few screens in key locations and gradually increase the
number. Look for providers who offer competitive prices or good package
deals.
Technical Support
Work with providers who assist in installation and provide ongoing technical support to reduce technological challenges.
Compliance Training
Create awareness in your team about regulatory compliance and patient
confidentiality to ensure all content adheres to legal requirements.
Discover how digital signage solutions can help you overcome these challenges.
How to Properly Implement Digital Signage Solutions
To take full advantage of the possibilities offered by digital signage, follow these pointers:
Content Distribution and Updating
Make use of straightforward, user-friendly software to manage and
modify content efficiently, ensuring schedules are created effectively
and content remains current and relevant.
Content Presentation
Your content must be placed on high-quality, professional
high-definition screens with great graphics to capture the attention and
interest of your audience.
Strategic Content Positioning
Displays should be placed where there is the most activity, such as waiting rooms, reception areas, and consultation rooms.
Compliance and Information Security
Ensure all content complies with healthcare regulations and patient
privacy laws, such as HIPAA, to maintain trust and avoid legal issues.
Advantages of Using Digital Signage in Dental Practice
Embracing digital signage in your dental clinic offers several benefits beyond modernizing the appearance:
- Strengthening Brand Identity: Consistent communication and visualization of brand motifs reinforce brand recognition among patients.
- Encouraging Patient Referrals: An appealing, modern office environment can encourage patients to recommend your services to friends and family.
- Enhancing Online Reputation: Positive in-office experiences can lead to favorable reviews and increased engagement on your social media channels.
Many American and European clinics use digital banners and other
marketing strategies to increase their clientele. This is largely due to
the high level of competition between clinics and the significant
potential for growth in your practice.