Ask, do not assume
Only add people who agreed to receive your emails. A patient's contact details for appointments are not consent for a newsletter. Ask separately, record the answer, and include an unsubscribe link in every email. In Australia the Spam Act applies to commercial email.
Give a reason to join
- A useful one-page guide: "Five exercises for desk workers' necks".
- Early access to classes and workshops.
- A short monthly email with practical advice.
Collect sign-ups everywhere
A form on your website, a sign-up option on intake forms, and a mention at the end of your posts and videos. See intake forms and content that brings patients.
What to send
Mostly useful advice, occasionally an offer. A good ratio is three helpful emails for every one that sells something. Keep them short and written like you talk.
Use it for launches
Before you build an online program or run a workshop, ask your list what they want. They are your first buyers and your best feedback.
Keep it separate from care messages
Appointment reminders and recalls are care messages. Newsletters are marketing. Keep the two separate, and never send marketing to people who opted out. See bringing back lapsed patients.
Frequently asked questions
Can I email my patients a newsletter?
Only if they agreed to receive it. Appointment details alone are not consent for marketing.
How often should a physio email their list?
Monthly is a good start. Consistency matters more than frequency.
What should a physio newsletter include?
Practical advice, clinic news, and occasional offers such as new classes or programs.