We already know the world has gone mobile. In fact, according to Statista, in 2018, over half of all website traffic was from a mobile device.
In addition to needing a proper mobile-friendly website, incorporating a mobile-first strategy into all parts of your practice can set you up for immediate and future success. Still not convinced?
Below are 8 surprising statistics we found about consumers and texting, all which may translate over into how your patients may prefer to be contacted:
- According to Off the Cusp, 64% of people prefer a text message over voice as a customer service channel. This means your patients will likely respond to a text message appointment reminder instead of an automated voicemail these days!
- 78% of customers say receiving a text message is the fastest way to reach them for important updates (source: Text Magic). If you’re experiencing an emergency, last-minute opening, or another critical change that requires you to alert numerous patients at once, sending a text may be the best way to reach them at once as it’s quick and immediate (versus email that may not be checked instantly).
- According to USA Today, the average adult spends 23 hours a week texting, making it a great channel to get your message seen by patients.
- Text messages have a 98% open rate, while email only has a 20% open rate (Mobile Marketing Watch). If you want to guarantee that a patient sees your communications, text messaging is the way to go. People get upwards of 100+ emails a day, so sending a text message may be the best way to make sure your practice stands out in the crowd
- The average American checks their phone 46 times per day (Source). As stressed above, if you have a timely announcement that needs to be seen quickly – sending a text message is the best way to go about doing so! Email is often not regarded as “urgent” but a text message will get on someone’s radar quickly.
- If you want to get a response from a patient, text messaging is the way to go. On average, it takes someone 90 seconds to respond to a text message but 90 minutes to respond to an email (Source).
- 79% of companies believe customers want SMS/text support (ICMI). If your practice doesn’t keep up with the competition, you may lose loyal patients to a better experience elsewhere.
- According to OneReach, 77% of consumers between 18-34 are likely to have a positive perception of a company that offers texting capabilities. Help current and potential patients see your practice as cutting-edge by sending automated text reminders to them on a regular basis!
Want to learn more about texting patients and automating communications? Call ProSites to learn how its patient communications solution from PracticeMojo can help you reduce no-shows and improve profitability. Call (888) 932-3644 today!
