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Writer's pictureBrigitte Sager

Nurse Marketing Insights: The 5 Things Patients are Researching Before Choosing Your Practice

As a nurse entrepreneur, you’re not just offering a service—you’re solving problems, building trust, and creating transformational change for your clients. Whether you’re providing telehealth consultations or in-person sessions, and are offering functional nursing, integrative education, nurse coaching, or any other holistic nursing modalities, one of the biggest hurdles is often marketing. How do you help potential clients find you, trust you, and ultimately decide to work with you?


Here’s something to consider: before anyone makes a purchase—whether it’s a product, service, or program—they typically consider five key factors. These are the same factors that might be keeping your ideal clients from saying 'yes' to working with you.


Understanding these factors can make or break your ability to connect with your audience. I want to provide you with an overview of the five questions your clients are asking BEFORE they decide to work with you.


1. Pricing Strategies and Value for Nurse Entrepreneurs


One of the first things potential clients will consider is your pricing. They’re asking themselves: Is this worth it? or Am I getting good value for my money?


For nurse entrepreneurs, especially those in holistic or functional nursing, pricing can feel tricky. You’re offering something priceless—improved health and quality of life—but you still need to communicate that value effectively. Here’s how:


  • Be transparent about pricing. Display your rates clearly, so there’s no confusion. If your services include multiple components (consultations, follow-ups, lab reviews), spell that out.

  • Focus on outcomes. When you explain your pricing, highlight the results clients can expect. For example, rather than just listing “1-hour consultation: $150,” describe how this session helps clients uncover root causes and create actionable plans.

  • Compare thoughtfully. If your rates are higher than others in your area, explain why—your certifications, years of experience, or unique focus on functional medicine, for example.


2. Quality and Features


Your clients want to know what makes your services better. They’re evaluating the quality of what you offer and the specific features or benefits that set you apart.


  • Highlight your expertise. Are you certified in functional medicine? Do you have years of bedside nursing experience? Share these details on your website and marketing materials.

  • Describe your unique approach. For example, you might say, “Unlike traditional health coaching, I combine functional lab testing, nutrition education, and mindset work to help you achieve sustainable results.”

  • Show the ‘why.’ Use real examples to demonstrate how your approach works, such as stories about how clients’ energy levels improved or their chronic symptoms resolved.


3. Harnessing Client Reviews and Testimonials for Your Practice


People trust what others say about you more than what you say about yourself. Social proof is critical, and for nurses in private practice, it’s even more impactful.


  • Collect and display testimonials. Ask your clients for honest reviews about their experience with you. Display these prominently on your website and social media.

  • Showcase transformations. Instead of generic statements like “Brigitte is great,” focus on specifics: “After working with Brigitte for three months, my sleep improved, and I finally understood how to manage my autoimmune condition.”

  • Leverage professional endorsements. If you’ve worked with other healthcare professionals or collaborated with well-known names in your field, ask for their endorsement.


4. Brand Reputation


Your brand is your identity. People research to see if you’re trustworthy, credible, and aligned with their values. If you’re inconsistent, unclear, or hard to find, it can damage their perception.


  • Build a cohesive online presence.  Your website, social media, and any other platforms you’re on should have a consistent look, tone, and message.

  • Share your story. People want to connect with you as a person. Tell your audience why you started your practice and what drives your passion for helping others.

  • Engage regularly. Post updates, share tips, or go live on social media. The more visible and approachable you are, the more people will trust you.


5. Streamlining Client Access and Scheduling for Success


Even if clients want to work with you, they’ll hesitate if the process feels confusing or inconvenient. They’ll research how easy it is to book a session, what your process looks like, and whether you’re accessible.


  • Simplify your booking process. Use an online scheduling tool like Practice Better, where clients can view your availability and book directly.

  • Be clear about your process. Spell out exactly what happens when someone works with you: “Step 1: Book a free consultation. Step 2: Complete intake forms. Step 3: Receive a personalized health plan.” People don't want to commit to handing over their money until they have a clear idea of what they'll be getting.

  • Offer flexibility. If possible, provide telehealth options, varied hours, or payment plans to make your services more accessible.


Bringing It All Together


Marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or unnatural, but it does take intentionality. These five key factors are just the tip of the iceberg. The real work lies in implementing strategies that truly connect with your audience. As a nurse entrepreneur, you’re already solving problems and making a difference—your job is to make sure the right people know that.


If you’re feeling stuck in your business or wondering how to effectively address these challenges, you’re not alone. The Holistic Nursing Entrepreneur Program is designed to help nurse entrepreneurs like you take these insights further and apply them strategically. Let’s turn your passion into a thriving practice.


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