Boost Retention & Referrals: 6 Simple Ways to Stay Top of Mind

Here’s a list of immediate action steps acupuncturists can take to keep patients engaged between visits:

1. Send Patients Home with a Visual Summary of Their Session  

Why this works: It reinforces what you worked on, shows your expertise, and gives them a takeaway they can refer to (or show to a spouse/friend).  

How to do it: Use a simple template from AcuDownloads to summarize their imbalance, the points you treated, and a self-care tip or two. Print or email it before they leave.

2. Text Them a “Post-Treatment Touchpoint”  

Why this works: It shows you care, builds trust, and keeps you top of mind. Patients feel like they’re not just a number.  

What to text: “Hey [Name], great seeing you today! I just sent you a quick tip sheet on [Condition]. Let me know how you’re feeling in a day or two!”  

Attach a quick image or infographic from AcuDownloads or Canva.

3. Stay in Touch Weekly (Not Just for Reminders)  

Why this works: Appointment reminders don’t build connection. Education and encouragement do.  

What to send: A short, digestible newsletter or graphic related to their concern — headaches, anxiety, digestion, etc. You only need 1–2 good pieces a week for your whole list.

4. Use “Micro-Content” to Stay in TOMA (Top Of Mind Awareness)  

Why this works: Out of sight = out of mind. Little, frequent touches make you unforgettable.  

How to do it: Reuse patient content on social media, email, and text. Short quotes, tips, or FAQs. If you’re using AcuDownloads, grab a ready-made post and schedule it.

5. Automate Where You Can (So You Don’t Burn Out)  

Why this works: You don’t have to be in your inbox or Canva 24/7.

What to do: Pick your top 3 downloaded conditions. Set up an automation that emails or texts patients resources over time (week 1, 3, 5, etc.). Most email platforms allow basic automation — and AcuDownloads content makes it plug-and-play.

6. Ask Yourself: “What would I want if I were the patient?”  

Why this works: This resets your mindset from “marketer” to “guide.” Patients want clarity, connection, and confidence.  

Try this: Before their next visit, send a message like:  

“Looking forward to your next visit. I’ve been thinking about what we’re working on — and I’m excited for your progress. You’re doing great!”