(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
China’s healthcare sector is a goldmine of opportunity, but only for those who truly grasp what patients want. For overseas brands, decoding these preferences is the first step to winning trust and market share. This article explores practical ways to uncover patient needs and turn them into strategies that drive growth.
1. Conducting In-Depth Interviews
1.1 One-on-One Sessions
Personal interviews with patients reveal emotional drivers behind healthcare choices, like trust in doctors or fear of side effects. These sessions provide nuanced insights that surveys might miss. Brands can use this to fine-tune their messaging.
1.2 Expert Moderation
Skilled moderators fluent in Mandarin and local dialects ensure smooth, culturally relevant conversations. They can probe deeper into responses, uncovering hidden motivations. This leads to richer data for strategic planning.
2. Observing Real-World Behaviors
2.1 Clinic Visits
Shadowing patients in healthcare settings shows how they interact with services, from appointment booking to treatment follow-ups. Observing these touchpoints highlights gaps overseas brands can address. It’s a hands-on way to spot opportunities.
2.2 Online Activity
Tracking how patients research health topics on platforms like Baidu reveals their decision-making process. This behavior data informs where brands should focus digital marketing efforts. It also uncovers trending concerns to prioritize.
3. Adapting to Regional Differences
3.1 Coastal vs. Inland Needs
Coastal cities like Guangzhou may demand cutting-edge treatments, while inland regions prioritize cost-effective care. Understanding these variations helps brands tailor offerings by region. It ensures relevance across China’s vast market.
3.2 Language Customization
Using local dialects in research materials respects cultural identities and boosts participation. It also ensures clarity in responses, avoiding misinterpretations. This small tweak can significantly enhance data accuracy.
4. Incorporating Feedback Loops
4.1 Iterative Testing
Sharing initial findings with patients for validation refines insights over time. This iterative process catches errors early and aligns strategies with real needs. It’s a proactive way to stay relevant.
4.2 Actionable Adjustments
Turning feedback into product or service tweaks shows responsiveness, building patient loyalty. For example, adjusting packaging based on usability complaints can improve satisfaction. Quick wins like these strengthen brand perception.
Case Study: Enhancing a Fitness App’s Penetration
An overseas fitness app developer wanted to expand into China. Through clinic observations and interviews in Beijing and Chengdu, they learned that users preferred gamified health tracking over standard metrics. By integrating these features and promoting them on Douyin, the app saw a 50% user increase in three months.
Conclusion
Understanding patient preferences in China requires a mix of direct engagement, observation, and regional adaptation. Overseas brands that invest in these methods can craft solutions that win hearts and markets. Want to explore your options? Reach out for a consultation!
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
info@pltfrm.cn
www.pltfrm.cn
