E-commerce provides an opportunity to accommodate your patients’ needs, generate additional sales, stand out from your competitors, and potentially build relationships with individuals who may not be part of your current patient base.
The Covid pandemic created an environment in which online shopping has exploded, and it’s not just young people searching for products. In 2020, Americans 65 and older spent an average of nearly $187 per month online, up 60% from the year prior, and they are the fastest-growing group of online shoppers by age group, according to market research firm NPD Group’s Checkout Tracking.
And, even though things have opened back up, many people will continue to take advantage of shopping from home. Having an e-commerce store allows you to meet shoppers where they are–online!
Here are some additional benefits of integrating e-commerce for audiologists and hearing health specialists:
Provide Added Value
E-commerce offers your website visitors the ability to safely and conveniently purchase hearing products in the comfort of their own homes at any time of the day or night, 365 days a year. The ability to sell products whether your office is open or closed adds value to their visit to your site and provides a positive experience.
In addition, giving your patients the option to purchase hearing products directly from you instead of a big e-commerce platform, keeps them engaged with you and builds loyalty and trust.
Increase Revenue
Selling hearing products directly on your website not only increases your revenue but also allows you to prepare for new over-the-counter hearing aids (OTC). While offering products that people want to buy, you will also be able to demonstrate the value of your professional care by encouraging visitors to make an appointment with you to ensure their device fits properly and is adjusted appropriately. This is something they will not receive when purchasing OTC devices elsewhere.
Increase Website Traffic
Adding e-commerce content to your website will increase the likelihood that people searching for your products will land on your website (organic traffic). In addition to selling to your current patients who live locally, you will have the opportunity to sell your products to people who live anywhere.
Grow Your Practice
As your e-commerce store grows and gets more exposure in internet searches, it creates a new touchpoint and the potential for acquiring new patients. You will have the ability to build up relationships and demonstrate your expertise.
With the changes in buying habits that have already occurred, the competitiveness in the audiology industry, as well as changes on the horizon, now is the time to take advantage of every opportunity available to keep your current and potential patients engaged while opening up an untapped revenue stream. If you would like to know more about creating an online e-commerce store click here.
If you would like to know more about e-commerce for audiologists and hearing health professionals, contact us today!