Is your Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) struggling to grow census and hit key performance indicators (KPIs)? The reality is, low census is not just a challenge—it’s a threat to your bottom line. But increasing census doesn’t have to be painful. At SMK Medical, we specialize in helping SNFs like yours increase census with smart, actionable strategies. Below are three proven techniques we use to help facilities not only meet their census goals but exceed them.

1. Promote What You Do Best 🔥

What does your facility excel at? Maybe you provide outstanding wound care, manage dementia care with exceptional success, or maintain the lowest return-to-hospital rates in your area. But does everyone know this?

If your local case managers, home health companies, and even your competitors aren’t aware of what sets you apart, you're missing a massive opportunity. Everyone should know about your strengths, and that starts with consistent communication. At SMK Medical, we help facilities create clear messaging that reaches the right people—making sure your strengths become your greatest asset in growing census.

2. Leverage Social Media to Showcase Your Facility 🌐

Social media is one of the most underutilized tools in healthcare, and the best part is, it’s free! Platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn can significantly increase your reach and help boost census. Use Facebook to connect with families and share uplifting stories from your facility, while LinkedIn can help you build professional relationships with case managers, hospital discharge planners, and other key stakeholders.

Show off your facility’s amazing care and environment with pictures, testimonials, and stories. When used strategically, social media will not only improve visibility but also foster trust among potential residents and their families.

3. Shift Your Focus—Just One Degree Can Make a Difference 🎯

Sometimes, all you need to do is shift your focus slightly to unlock new opportunities for census growth. Are there services you could be offering that you aren’t currently focused on? For example, becoming a regional leader in wound care or dementia management could set your facility apart from competitors.

At SMK Medical, we help facilities identify small shifts that create big results. It’s not about doing everything differently—it’s about adjusting your approach to make the most of what you already have.

Act Now Before It’s Too Late! ⏳

Don’t let a low census hold your facility back. Every day your census is stagnant, you’re losing revenue, growth, and opportunities. The strategies we’ve outlined can help you finish Q4 strong and set the foundation for a successful 2025—but only if you act now.

SMK Medical is ready to help your facility grow fast. Our team specializes in boosting census, improving KPIs, and positioning facilities like yours for long-term success. Call us today at 313-314-8267 or visit smkmed.com to get started. Don't wait—every day counts!