Every health and wellness professional prefers to spend the time with patients and clients face to face rather than discuss marketing, social networking or emails. That’s a no-brainer. But the first question that should be asked is “How are clients and patients finding me?”

At a time when less than 10% of health and wellness professionals can be found on the Internet, there seems to be a major disconnect to what they need and what “Internet experts” recommend. Some companies report 30% of health and wellness professionals have an online presence – well guess what, that hospital Web site profile and medical-review Web site directory don’t count.

Our advice: You don’t have to spend considerable amount of time or money on Internet platforms (Web site, facebook, twitter, blog, rss feeds…) to be able to reach and generate new clients and patients. Just establish an online presence!

What kind of online presence do you need?

Our advice: get a Web site (and later, add a facebook page and blog). In some areas of the country where there isn’t much competition… all you need is a Web site for patients to start noticing.

Stop complaining. If you’re not seeing enough clients or patients, recognize the fact that your people are looking for information and resources online [click here]. If you don’t have an Internet presence in 2012, chances are you’re struggling with keeping your practice alive.

Health and wellness professionals with a strong online presence are having an easier time generating new clients and patients. Much as changed… but providing health and wellness is a business. And in business, having a distinctive, informative and search-friendly Web presence is essential.