There's magic in learning how to translate the mysterious into the practical—especially when it comes to bridging the world of acupuncture with the language of Western medicine. Sometimes, all it takes is a burrito and a bit of bravery to create connections that open doors.
In this conversation with Elie Cole, we explore her journey from a massage therapist to a successful acupuncturist with a thriving practice built on referrals from biomedical professionals. Elie tells the story of a chance encounter at a farmer’s market that led her to develop a “lunch and learn” strategy that turned local doctors into reliable referral partners.
Listen into this discussion as we explore the art of using biomedical language to demystify acupuncture, the subtle dance of professionalism and relatability, the unexpected marketing power of a fax machine, and how to navigate the complexities of running a wellness center.
In This Conversation We Discuss:
- How Elie transitioned from massage therapy to acupuncture
- The challenges of building a practice fresh out of school
- Lessons learned from managing a wellness center
- Why a receptionist can be the most expensive part of a wellness business
- The art of using biomedical language to connect with doctors
- Elie's “lunch and learn” strategy for gaining referrals
- The power of keeping communication simple with medical professionals
- How to leverage a fax machine as a marketing tool
- The concept of “anti-marketing” and what to avoid
- The impact of following up with referring doctors
- Tips for introverted practitioners to build professional networks
- How to present acupuncture to doctors without being “weird”
- The benefits of creating a network of healthcare providers
- How to set boundaries with patients and practitioners in a shared space
- Elie’s approach to patient care: balancing treatment with empowerment
After receiving a referral, get the patient scheduled immediately, fax the provider a thank you note.
After treating the patient 3-4 times, fax a progress report to the provider.
Not only is this good patient care, it also keeps you top of mind for that referring provider.
I am Dr. Elie Cole, DAOM, and I’m a doctor of acupuncture & Oriental medicine. I’ve enjoyed private practice in Portland, Oregon since 2008. I started out at PCOM San Diego then received a Master of Science from Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM) in 2007 and a doctorate of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine from OCOM in 2016.
Chinese Medicine Explained (CME) came out of my doctoral capstone project. I spent 2 years creating this program and then I spent another 2 years improving upon it, testing it, and preparing it for you. Every single sentence in my PowerPoint presentation is backed up by research.
I believe we should share the amazing medicine we have the good fortune to practice with as many other medical providers as possible. Not only do I have MDs referring to me, but also nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical therapists, counselors, dietitians, and chiropractors. I also get referrals from complementary providers such as naturopathic doctors, massage therapists, and yoga teachers. My program works for all of the above.
Links and Resources
Learn more about Elie's Chinese Medicine Explained program.
You can also visit her on Instagram.