Lauren,

Identify your target(s). Do you specialize in certain areas? Try to
match your interests with those of your targets.
Are you looking to work in their practice? Referrals? What, exactly do
you want from them?

Remember that they probably do not speak TCM... learn their language
as best you can. You can, to some degree, explain basic TCM
theory...don't over do it.

Be humble (but confident) and don't overstate what TCM can do.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH... try to present your target with two or
three "credible" studies that show efficacy in your (their) area of
interest. Note: Many western style studies have caveats and qualifying
statements contained within them... choose your materials carefully.
If the science is too deep for your comprehension, get someone with a
degree in the appropriate field to translate it for you.
In liu of the above, case studies can be helpful but remember that
they are not scientifically definitive.
NOTE: Remember that there is no such thing as "sham" acupuncture. Even
thinking about a point will affect it to some degree... [research the
physics theory regarding superposition of photons. A photon is neither
(both) a particle or a wave until it is observed. This is verifiable
hard science and deflates any reference to the recent study showing
that "sham" acupuncture is just as effectiv as "real" acupuncture.
.... just something to think about. Most MD's are basically open to
TCM. If they are not, you are unlikely to convince them otherwise.
Other health professionals such as PT's, Chiros, etc. are generally
more open to TCM.

Be professional... send an introduction letter on your clinic
letterhead. You may want to include a well designed and informative
brochure. Remember that this brochure is designed for the allopath,
not the general public. Include copies of your selected studies or
place the pertinent info w/in the brochure. Follow up in a week or so
to see if the target received the material and whether or not they
have read it. Don't be shy... ask for an appointment to discuss your
practice or programs with them.
Use a shotgun approach. For every fifty contacts that you make, you
may only get a few or one or no response. These folks (esp. MD's) are
very busy and have flapper systems to insulate them from the public.
Do not get discouraged. It may take repeated efforts to get an
appointment.

You might try to enlist certain of your patients in this effort...
this can cut both ways so choose these ambassadors and targets
carefully.

What state do you practice in? Are you a primary care provider? This
can be very helpful. If not, start bugging your state organization to
change your scope of practice.

If you are confident speaking with others in this type of
setting...GREAT. If not, you may want to practice your "schpiel" in
front of a mirror or others.

Think of this process as you would when looking for a professional
level job. You may want keep a copy of your curriculum vitae with you
just in case.

I hope this is helpful. It is a challenge to develop a new practice
that is sustainable and successful. There are some programs out there
to help with this sort of thing. They are generally expensive but if
you have the resources, you might look into this.
DON'T OVER EXTEND!! Keep it simple and keep you overhead manageable.
Most businessess fail early due to under capitalization. Develop a
GOOD business plan!! Even if you are not seeking loans or investors
(be careful of this...try to fund yourself if possible), it can give
YOU a good idea about what you want and how to get it.

Good luck!!

dr.w

On 11/24/07, dautobrody <llbeandip@...> wrote:
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Does anyone have any tips or suggestions for networking with other health
> professionals-
> such as PT's or MD's? Any business growing tips as well?
>
> Lauren
>
>