AMA Best Practices in Patient Marketing Event to Feature Chris J. Wallace, Research Director, VHA at Fort Worth Club, November 17, 2005.

DALLAS & FORT WORTH, Texas -- In an age of increased competition for patients, it is not enough to "build it" and expect them to beat a path to your facility door. Hospitals, surgery centers, clinics and other medical centers have to reach out with a compelling message on multiple levels to convey why the care they offer is right for the patient.

On Thursday, November 17, 2005, the American Marketing Association, Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter, will host an Executive Luncheon entitled "Creating Patient Marketing Programs: What Works, What Doesn't and Why?" at the Fort Worth Club, 306 West 7th Street, Fort Worth, Texas from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. The speaker, Chris J. Wallace, is Research Director at VHA, Inc., the leading healthcare provider alliance with more than 600 member hospitals and medical facilities across the country.

Mr. Wallace will talk to what consumers expect from their healthcare provider and why. He will address issues such as cost, quality of care, physician capabilities and specialties, and patient service. Moreover, once a care facility has identified their position or "niche'" in the marketplace, he will address options for cutting through the clutter of everyday life to build preference among consumers. He will take program attendees through the evolution of consumerism in healthcare and what it takes to build consumer preference in the present healthcare environment. Key findings from several research studies, including input of over 50,000 consumers, will provide insight into effective marketing strategies and tactics.

Attendance is $25 for members of the American Marketing Association and the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and $35 for nonmembers paid in advance by November 15. Onsite and walk-in registrations will be available for an additional $10 per person. Registrations can be confirmed online at www.dfwmarketing.org or through www.cvent.com (event code 5EN8LUF3JWY). For more information, contact Denise Shedrick, AMA Executive Director at 972-943-1376.

About the American Marketing Association, Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter:

Comprised of over 500 members, the AMA in the Metroplex is the 13th largest chapter in the U.S. The group provides monthly luncheons in Dallas and Fort Worth, professional development seminars and networking opportunities for marketing and research professionals, academics from area colleges and universities, and marketing students. Nationally, the AMA has over 70 chapters that serve the needs of over 40,000 members.