Turning Conversations with Medical Professionals into MET Referrals

Many Medical Exercise Specialists (MES) mistakenly believe that merely discussing a client's progress with physicians, chiropractors, or physical therapists constitutes a referral relationship. However, a genuine referral relationship involves medical providers actively directing patients to an MES through formal, written referrals, thereby solidifying the MES's role in the healthcare continuum.

Educate Medical Professionals

Many healthcare providers are unfamiliar with referring patients for structured exercise programs like Medical Exercise Training (MET). For instance, an orthopedic surgeon with over a decade of experience once admitted to an MES that he was unsure how to refer a patient to a structured exercise program. This underscores the need for MES professionals to educate physicians, chiropractors, and therapists about their services and the referral process.

Develop Custom Referral Pads

Creating quarter-sheet-sized referral pads can facilitate formal referrals. These pads should include:

• The MES's name and contact information
• A checklist of conditions and services (e.g., functional training, post-rehab conditioning, mobility restoration)
• Space for the physician to note the patient's diagnosis and goals
• Signature and date lines for validation

Distributing 12 to 16 referral pads to local medical offices and placing them in high-visibility clinical areas ensures they are readily available when needed.

Maintain Professional Follow-Up

After receiving a referral, promptly send a thank-you letter or email to acknowledge the provider. Regular communication through concise, one-page progress reports—including initial assessment findings, the exercise plan, goals, and notable improvements—every 30 days or before the client's follow-up appointment reinforces trust and encourages ongoing referrals.

Build Relationships with Office Staff

Establishing rapport with office managers and administrative staff is crucial, as they often handle referral logistics. Strong relationships with these individuals can streamline communication and increase the likelihood of consistent referrals.

Uphold Professional Ethics

Never offer financial incentives for referrals. Medical professionals refer patients to those they trust to deliver safe, effective, and outcome-driven services. Demonstrate value through consistent professionalism, clear communication, and results-oriented exercise programs.

By implementing these strategies, MES professionals can establish themselves as trusted resources for medical providers seeking effective exercise solutions for their patients.

Join Our FREE "Cracking the Code" Webinar

To delve deeper into building successful referral relationships, join our FREE "Cracking the Code" webinar on Friday, March 21st, at Noon ET. Email [email protected] to register.