Time for a Checkup?

2014 is bringing a lot of changes to the health care market. Not only are insurance providers competing at the consumer level now, but employers, state and federal agencies have to educate people on the options available to them. If that doesn't scream "marketing opportunity," we don't know what does.

Do these new opportunities have you interested in selling to the health care market for the first time? Check out what industry experts have to say about selling to hospitals, medical centers and other wellness companies below.

WHAT'S SO GOOD ABOUT IT?
Besides the obvious answer of "there's money there," it's always nice if a particular market has other positives to selling into it. Thankfully, the health care market happens to be one of those.

"My favorite thing [about the health and wellness market] is that often times you are creating a positive experience for a patient or building awareness for a great cause," said Bradley Ellis, marketing manager for Via! for Travel and More, Corona, Calif. "It's a good feeling to be to be a part of that. Our particular products create a positive patient experience while the patient is being treated at a hospital or medical center," he said. "Knowing that our patient bedside kits or small comfort items, such as our eye shade masks, are making their visit a little more comfortable is awesome.

Chris Flynn, national sales manager for Fields Manufacturing/Better Life Line, St. Cloud, Minn., expanded on Ellis' idea of helpful products. Besides some products having helpful attributes themselves (sun care items, etc.), the messaging on the items is also something that can have a positive impact on the world. "My favorite aspect of selling health and wellness products is knowing that some of the messaging is truly going to help people and make a positive impact," said Flynn. "These products are not just useful advertising pieces; they are useful tools promoting a healthier lifestyle or [bringing] awareness to a cause."