I've been a long time lurker here and I finally got around to starting my own practice two months ago. My tech stack and systems are decent. However, I'm running into a very fundamental issue - I'm not getting enough patients. I know two months is nothing, but the sheer lack of volume is terrifying and I need some advice.
I'm running a self-pay telehealth weight loss clinic, licensed in two states. Boarded in internal and obesity medicine. I know the space is competitive, but I know exactly who my target audience is and I've built a differentiated product around serving them. I haven't credentialed with insurance - they are controlling and restrictive and I want to serve my patients without the headaches they bring.
I've been active and posting on all the socials and have a Google business profile, but I've gotten no organic hits. I've managed to recruit a few patients from Klarity (it's kind of like ZocDoc) but their UI is very frustrating and they have exorbitant fees. Otherwise, it's just been a few people via word of mouth. I've reached out to a couple doctors offices asking for referrals but they've kinda snubbed me so far.
I need honest feedback - need to know what other people who've ran a cash business or DPC have done to get patients in. I'm considering running ads, but they might be money burn. Should I be reaching out to more doctor's offices? Posting more on social? Or do I need to pivot my strategy, such as accepting insurance or opening up an office?
Any advice would be great.