Back-to-School and Back-to-Sports ‘Specials’ Can Help the Community—and Broaden Your Base

Labor Day weekend can signal a chaotic time of year as families scramble to squeeze in one more summertime adventure—sometimes overlooking the fact that their children have to get a check-up for fall sports or to make sure their immunization history is up to date. Promoting your capability to take care of that on shorter notice than a typical pediatric or primary care office could both help them out and land your operation more repeat visitors. Running a short-term “special” is one way to go. IMA Urgent Care in Port Monmouth, NJ got the word out to local media that during a specified week, from 10 AM to 3 PM, physicians would be standing ready to conduct the state-mandated exams for school sports participation for a flat fee of $10. The physical includes vital signs, an eye exam, medical history review, and assessment of flexibility, joint movement, and overall fitness. Other services, such as blood work deemed necessary based on findings, cost extra. In its public announcements, IMA included its address, hours of operation , and an overview of the services it provides on a walk-in basis. It’s likely that some neighbors who take advantage of the offer will be walking in for the first time—but probably not the last, if they’re happy with the service.