The Hidden Costs of Free Consultations: A Dentist's Entrepreneurial Lesson

Medellín, Colombia – Dr. Laura Estrada, a local dentist, has shared her insights on a common challenge faced by new practitioners: patient acquisition and retention. Initially, Dr. Estrada offered free dental consultations to attract a broad client base. However, she observed that while her schedule appeared full, a significant number of patients either failed to attend their appointments or did not proceed with recommended treatments. "I was frustrated because despite showing my work and the quality of materials, almost no one stayed," Dr. Estrada stated. This led to a reevaluation of her business model. Upon the advice of a friend, she decided to implement a fee for consultations. The change, she explains, led to fewer initial appointments but a higher conversion rate. "I realized that more than half of the patients who paid for consultations initiated treatment," she noted. Dr. Estrada emphasizes that charging for consultations is crucial for valuing a dentist's time, expertise, and the significant investment required to open and maintain a dental practice. Her experience suggests that a paid consultation model attracts more committed patients, fostering a more sustainable and less frustrating practice environment for dental professionals.