FUN IDEAS FOR COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND PATIENT ENGAGEMENT

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Since opening my Direct Primary Care and Psychedelic Treatment Practice in August 2023, I’ve discovered creative ways to engage with my patients and community. It’s been enjoyable to visit local businesses and governmental agencies like the Chamber of Commerce, fostering connections. Distributing 2 oz or 4 oz bottles of essential oil blends has been incredibly popular, with ongoing requests. During bug season, I’ve even sold a few bottles of my often-requested lemon eucalyptus “bye-buy bugs.” I take this opportunity to discuss that mosquitos are the most dangerous animal and repellant can be made with safe ingredients. Setting myself apart is crucial, as I aim to highlight the unique experience I offer in medical care access.

One of my former patients, who runs a botanical business, impressed me with his unconventional business card. He calls himself the “plant whisperer” and crafts hand-painted rocks bearing his name and contact details—a memorable touch indeed.

For new patients, I delight in offering them a bottle of my latest essential oil blend batch, if available. They often express feeling valued and special. I understand that not everyone may be interested in essential oils, and I respect that preference. However, those who appreciate them are thrilled to receive a personalized gift from their doctor. I emphasize to them that the most crucial ingredient in these bottles is love—I infuse each blend with positive intentions during preparation. I use small bottles, filtered water, and dilute the essential oils to ensure safety, especially for children.

During my grand opening, I prepared around 100 of these bottles, and they were snapped up eagerly. It’s rewarding to hear community members recognize me as the doctor who gifts essential oil atomizer bottles. Previously, I created these for Family Medicine Residents at a large corporation, and now I’m excited to offer them to patients in my own practice.

About April Soto, MD

April Soto was born and raised in Guatemala to Puerto Rican Missionaries. She came to the US to attend university and medical school at University of California San Francisco. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at White Memorial Hospital in Los Angeles, Ca , a 1-year Fellowship in HIV Medicine at Los Angeles County-University of California, 2-year fellowship in Integrative Medicine through Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine in San Diego, Ca. She worked at Kaiser Permanent for 13.5 years in Family Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Family Medicine Surgical Services and served as the Wellness Champion for the Family Medicine Residents. Dr Soto is also trained in psychedelic services and offers Ketamine, Breathwork and Biofield Medicine/Energy Healing services for patients with mental health concerns. She enjoys complementing western medicine along with addressing the physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional needs of her patients as well. She meditates daily and enjoys time in nature. Boogie boarding alongside the surfers brings her great joy! She lives in Los Angeles, Ca with her beloved husband Chris.