A lot actually. Other than the phone call to make the appointment and perhaps a visit to your Web site, it is a patient’s first experience with your practice and therefore, a first impression. Are you making a good one? Is your parking area well marked? Is there an ample number of spaces (including handicapped spaces)? Is there a designated and easy-to-use drop-off area? Do you have an overflow option for busy days? Is all of this communicated to your patients through signage, on your Web site and by your staff when they schedule patient appointments?
We’re all familiar with the phrase “walking in another’s shoes.” When was the last time you “drove in your patient’s shoes”? Take a test drive on your way into the office tomorrow. Look at everything through their eyes. What needs to change?
Parking is part of the patient experience and ultimately, your brand. You can have the best doctors on the planet, but if a patient can’t find a place to park, they are already anxious and maybe even angry when they walk in your door. You are already starting off on the wrong foot.
Make sure your patient parking is up to the task.