Outsource Marketing Solutions blog

To the lens, To the lens

Lenses are cool.  Anybody can put one up.  They are SO easy.
They are kinda like a website, kinda like a blog, but different.

On my lens, one of the links I have is to what I like to call "O&P on EBay."  It gives you a preview of what orthotic and prosthetic items are being auctioned off on EBay every day.  Fascinating.

Everything from C-leg units - there's one on there right now - to peg legs and everything in between.   Check it out.

You can also check out the First Bid lens, too.

Tip of the Day

Have you ever stood at the check-in window/receptionist's desk only to have them answer the phone while you wait?
And then they have to schedule an appointment, transfer the call or resolve an issue?

Most medical (and non-medical for that matter) offices have a very busy, front office/reception area. 

MARKETING TIP:  Try having someone whose responsibilities do not include answering the phone be the one who greets patients/customers.

Think about it. 
Reception areas are for receiving people in person.
Phone answering can be done anywhere.

Positioning for the future

From Diabetes Today online:

Diabetes Epidemic Out of Control
"The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has published new data indicating the enormity of the diabetes epidemic. Data published in the Federation's Diabetes Atlas show that the disease now affects a staggering 246 million people worldwide, with 46 percent of all those affected in the 40-59 age group...The new data predict that the total number of people living with diabetes will skyrocket to 380 million within 20 years if nothing is done."

How does that affect you as an orthotic prosthetic practitioner or as a manufacturer of O&P products and components?

What do you do for patients with diabetes? 

Are you telling them that you are aware that they have diabetes and that you address that as part of their care?  Everyone else is.

Targeted, diabetes-related marketing because 380 million is  very big niche.

Link-ing Logs

Link building.

What can links do for you? Build your online presence.
Which - Enhances your credibility.
And helps you - Market your expertise.

Are you an O&P practitioner?
Have you taken any of the following courses?
Do you own any trademarked or branded equipment (scanners, etc.) sold by any of the companies listed below?

Check to see if you are linked, not just listed, LINKED on the company's website!

(Tip: You should check and see if your former employees are listed as still working for you or your current employees are listed working somewhere else!)

If you've taken a course, that is listed below, clicked on the link below and can't find a list on the site, I didn't make a mistake!  That means the company doesn't provide a list on their site.

(You could always send them an email and ask them to, ESPECIALLY if you can't buy or use their product unless you've taken their course.)

Yes (listings and/or links)
Otto Bock C-leg, Harmony, or Myobock
Ossur Rheo knee, Power knee, Proprio foot 
Motion Control Utah Arm
OPGA/M.A.S M.A.S.Socket Design Seminar
Orthomerica StarScanner
(Note: Orthomerica lists StarScanner facilities only, not any of the practitioners who have taken any Orthomerica courses)
Horton Stance Control Orthotic Knee Joint

No (listings or links)
BioSculptor BioCasting, BioScanner
Ohio Willow Wood Omega Tracer, Transfemoral Dynamic Applications
Allard Tomorrow's Orthotic Technology Education
College Park TruStep Foot, TruPer Foot, Venture Foot, Tribute Foot
Becker SpineCor
Boston Brace Comprehensive Spinal Management Workshop
Fillauer Managaing Orthotic Ambulation
Spinal Tech Providence Course
Cascade Dafo Dynamic Bracing Workshop
Bremer VertAlign and ComfAlign Support System

Celebrate Certified

"...Axelson wanted Lenna to know more about a prosthetic limb that could be attached to her original limb so she was introduced to Rick Riley, a certified prosthetist Axelson has known for many years as a fellow adaptive skier."

The reporter even used the word "prosthesis" not prosthetic!

Congratulations Rick Riley, CP on a great article.
"Fundraiser to help Carson teen get a new prosthetic leg"