Dentists, chiropractors, physical therapists and specialists may see patients who don't have a primary care doctor they can reach. If those providers know you and trust you, they'll mention you. The best relationships go both ways.
Who to get to know
- Dentists and orthodontists.
- Chiropractors and physical therapists.
- Specialists you already send members to.
- Pharmacists at independent pharmacies.
- Counselors and therapists.
- Midwives and lactation consultants, for families.
How to start
- Drop by with a one-page summary of DPC and your direct number.
- Offer a 15-minute coffee to learn what their patients need.
- Send them members when it fits, and tell them when you do.
Make referrals easy
Give them cards or a short link they can share, and a promise: "Anyone you send gets a call back within one business day." Then keep it. Why speed matters.
Keep it professional
Referrals should follow what's best for the patient. Don't pay or reward another provider for sending patients. Federal and state rules on referral payments between providers can be strict. Ask a healthcare attorney before setting up anything beyond a friendly relationship.
Track who sends members
In a made-up example, two dentists and a physical therapist send 10 members in a year. Thank them, keep them updated with patient permission where needed, and visit once or twice a year.
What I'd do this week
- List five local providers your members already see.
- Visit one with your one-page summary.
- Add "another provider" to your how-did-you-hear question.
Common questions
Can I share patient information with them?
Only as allowed for care, or with patient permission. Ask your compliance advisor if unsure.
Do specialists refer to DPC?
Ask the ones you know, especially about patients who have no primary care doctor.
Should I send them a gift?
Keep it small and ask your attorney first. Rules on gifts between providers can be strict.
Want to know which sources bring members?
We reconcile every account every month and send your P&L and Balance Sheet by the 15th, so you can see what each new member is worth and what it cost to get them. If that's what you need, apply to work with us.