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Almost every doctor can relate to the trials and tribulations experienced when starting a practice. There is the stress of establishing yourself in the community and building a patient base as well as familiarizing yourself with other physicians in the area. Having had that experience, you can get on the inside track with new physicians by following some basic rules.

1. Meet all new physicians in your area. Instead of throwing away the announcement card that many doctors receive from new practices, write a welcome letter to the physician and make a point of calling him or her personally to introduce yourself. If the new physician is in private practice, visit the new office along with your office manager. See if any help is needed in getting started.

2. Refer patients. A doctor just starting out in his own practice will never forget the physician who referred his first patients. Send a few of your patients to the new physician whenever possible.

3. Provide some marketing advice. A new physician may be too busy to concentrate on the nitty gritty of marketing his or her practice. Offer some tips that helped you in establishing your practice. Let the new physician know about any literature that can provide some insight into marketing new practices.

Whatever steps you decide to take, consider the fact that this is one of your best opportunities to endear yourself to a new physician--someone who will not only appreciate your help, but will also  return the favor by way of referrals.