The Patient Commitment Secret
You’ve probably heard the phrase: “You’re only as strong as your weakest link.” In your practice, that weakest link might not be your staff, but rather a recurring problem with patients who cancel or don't show up for their visits.
This is a common issue for many medical practices, but it has a simple, powerful solution: establishing clear Rules of Engagement from the very beginning. This isn’t about being strict—it’s about setting the stage for accountability so your patients can truly achieve the results they desire.
Let’s explore what these rules mean for you, your team, and your practice’s long-term success.
🧠 What Are the Rules of Engagement?
The "rules of engagement" are the boundaries and expectations you set for your patients. They define how patients will participate in their own care and what they are committing to when they walk into your office. This needs to happen right away, on Day 2 during the Report of Findings.
Your practice's potential isn't just tied to your clinical expertise—it's directly tied to a patient’s willingness to participate fully. This means they are not just "spending money," they are actively working within your established system to get the results they want.
💡 Why Rules of Engagement Matter
At its core, a patient’s commitment is a key factor in their success. When a patient understands and agrees to your rules, you reduce chaos and increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Without clear rules, leaders risk:
Patients getting stuck in a cycle of cancellations.
The team losing sight of their long-term vision for the patient's health.
Limiting a patient’s ability to get the results they came for.
When you don’t set expectations, your patients can end up running the show.
📝 Signs Your Patients Aren't Following the Rules
Ask yourself:
Are we seeing a high number of cancellations or no-shows?
Do patients seem to lack commitment to their home exercises or nutrition?
Are we having to chase patients to reschedule missed appointments?
If the answer is “yes” to any of these, you may be operating without a clear plan for engagement, and it’s time to set one.
🔑 How to Set and Enforce Your Rules of Engagement
The good news is that you can get patients committed to their care through three clear points of contact:
Level of Commitment → Ask your patients to rate their commitment on a scale of 1–10. Frame this as their commitment to themselves and the process, not a financial decision. Outline what is expected of them, such as showing up for scheduled visits, doing home exercises, and working on their nutrition.
Service Agreement → Reiterate your rules in writing. Go over the Fee for Service agreement and other forms line by line, so the patient understands cancellation fees, payment policies, and their commitment to care.
Front Desk Accountability → After their first visit, have your front desk staff go over a quick accountability script. They can remind the patient to make up missed visits and reinforce the cancellation policy.
When you set these expectations from the beginning, your patients know what to expect, and your team is empowered to guide them to success.
🎯 Bringing It All Together
The rules of engagement remind us that the greatest limitation on a patient’s success isn’t a lack of your skill—it’s a lack of their own accountability. Your patients can only get better if they show up and do the work.
By setting clear rules, involving your team, and holding patients accountable, you will make an incredible impact on your patients' health and on the world.
💡 Final Thought: Are You Getting Commitment—or Just a Signature?
Every practice wants to get their patients better. The question is—are you giving your patients the clear plan and accountability they need to get there?
Stop letting your patients run amok. Get them committed, and watch them achieve the results they truly need and want.
🎥 Prefer to Watch Instead?
If you’d rather see this concept broken down in action, watch the video here: CLICK HERE
WHO WE ARE
At MedPro Dojo, we help leaders and healthcare teams break through their limitations by strengthening culture, communication, and accountability. Whether it’s through training, coaching, or leadership development, we’ll help you raise your lid and unlock your full potential.
📩 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call or Text: (833) 678-0800
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