One of the problems with sleep apnea is that an estimated 80% of sufferers have no idea that they have it. Often times, it is the partner of the apnea sufferer who is first aware that there could be a problem. Whether persistent, window-rattling snores are keeping them awake or they’ve actually noticed their loved one periodically stop breathing at night, sometimes the other person being affected by apnea is the most likely to inquire about the problem.
It May Start With a Snore
While snoring is the most common complaint among partners of those who have sleep apnea, they usually have no idea about the other complications that accompany OSA. When partners learn about the increased risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even death, the problem becomes far more serious than a snore. This is precisely why your marketing should also appeal to the significant others of your would-be patients.
How To Make It Happen
There’s no need to revamp all of your marketing to appeal to partners. You can easily draw attention to the problem by doing one or more of the following:
- Share a post to your Facebook page about the symptoms of apnea that directly affect the partner. It’s likely that they’re not only fed up with the snoring, but they’ve also noticed mood changes and lethargy in their loved ones.
- Include website copy that appeals to sleeping partners. Remember that people want to know that you offer solutions, so in addition to hitting on pain points, be sure to mention that you may be able to provide relief.
- Run ads on Google and Facebook that directly address the sleeping partner. Make sure your keywords include phrases that will help your ads reach the right people.
While your ultimate goal is to treat and even save the lives of apnea sufferers, sometimes the shortest route to making that happen is through the people who love them the most. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to educate not only potential patients about the dangers of apnea, but their significant others, as well.
