Supplemental Activities

1. Visit local retailers to determine which products are available in your area. Compare availability and pricing along with travel distance from your office.

2. Visit Web sites of self-care device manufacturers or call the manu-facturer’s 800 number. Request product information on features and benefits, and copies of scientific studies supporting product usage. Find out if the company has any complementary demonstration programs that allow you to get product for viewing/inoffice demonstrations.

3. Set-up a self-care section in your office that allows clients the opportunity to touch and feel products available in your area. Compile a list of the retailers that carry the products, along with suggested pricing. Follow up with your client in a couple of weeks via phone or email to determine if they have purchased the product. Offer to have clients come in with the device if they are having in difficulties in using it. Document your actions to see if it helps to increase client compliance.

4. Attend trade shows at least once a year to learn about new products on the market.

5. Scan your journals monthly and set aside time to read articles that are relevant to the types of clients and problems you see in your practice.

6. Seek out and attend continuing education courses that provide a strong scientific foundation. Limit attendance at courses that are primarily case study or anecdotal information.