Getting new patients into a clinic isn’t just about advertising. The key is designing a clear patient intake funnel that guides prospective patients from awareness to booking and attending appointments. Clinics with well-structured funnels reduce drop-offs, improve patient flow, and increase overall bookings.
Want to see how your clinic’s digital funnel performs and where it could be optimised? Get a free preview of your online presence and intake journey.
What is a Patient Intake Funnel?
A patient intake funnel is the step-by-step path a prospective patient takes before becoming a booked and attended patient. It covers awareness, consideration, booking, and onboarding.
Example 1: Website to Appointment Funnel
- Google Search: A patient searches “dentist near me.”
- SEO-Optimised Website: Your clinic’s site appears and loads quickly.
- Clear Call-to-Action: Buttons like “Book Appointment” or “WhatsApp Now” are prominent.
- Easy Form: A short booking form captures name, contact, and reason for visit.
- Confirmation + Reminder: Patient receives an email or SMS confirming the appointment, plus a reminder 24 hours before.
Why it works: Simple, fast, and reduces friction in booking.
Example 2: Social Media Funnel
- Instagram Reel: Doctor answers a common health question (eg, “How do you know if tooth pain means a cavity?”).
- CTA in Caption: “Book your dental check-up today, link in bio.”
- Link in Bio Page: Patient clicks to see options: Book Now, Call, WhatsApp.
- Booking Page: Patient selects preferred time slot.
- Follow-Up: Clinic confirms and welcomes the patient.
Why it works: Builds trust with educational content, then makes booking effortless.
Example 3: Referral Funnel
- Existing Patient: Finishes a consultation and is satisfied.
- Staff Prompt: Reception asks, “Would you like to share our WhatsApp booking link with friends or family?”
- Referral Thank-You: Referring patient gets a small token of appreciation (like priority booking).
- New Patient: Books through the link and completes intake form.
Why it works: Formalises word-of-mouth, which is powerful in healthcare.
Example 4: Lead Generation Funnel
- Facebook Ad: Promotes a free health screening day.
- Landing Page: Visitors fill out details to register.
- Post-Event Nurturing: Follow up with personalised offers for non-bookers.
- Conversion: Patient books and joins the regular intake system.
Why it works: Gives value first, builds trust, then converts interest into appointments.
Final Thoughts
Mapping out a patient intake funnel ensures every step from awareness to attendance is optimised. Clinics that understand and implement structured funnels reduce drop-offs, increase bookings, and provide a smoother experience for patients.
