This is an area vital to the long-term strategy of nearly all practitioners. Marketing is one aspect of a practice that can be done not only cheaper, better, and faster, but also differently, over the Internet. This ranges from the design and function of a web page to the involvement of peers, referral sources, and strategic partners. This raises the topic of collaboration. The most important strategic uses of the Internet will be in areas that require collaboration, and the Internet enables collaboration in ways that were previously impossible or prohibited by cost.
Collaboration helps doctors to lower costs, improve productivity, and improve patient satisfaction.
In its ultimate application, the Internet will enable doctors to deliver seamless healthcare amongst different specialists. It is important to recognize that eCommerce is not to be feared. The Internet is simply a new tool that will enable things to be done faster, better, cheaper, and differently. It is developing quickly, but there is plenty of time to develop a clear, logical strategy that compliments your practice style and goals. It is important to develop a plan that recognizes the broader issues and possibilities of eCommerce rather than developing a strategy in a piecemeal fashion with no long-term direction.