As you can see from the chart above, the likelihood to attend a speaker program has declined across the six types of programs. 

The biggest decreases, with statistical significance, are the events at their office, hospital, or clinic.  This is probably due to the new restrictions that have been put into place regarding visitations.

Although restaurant events have not seen as great a drop as in-office events, providers are still less likely to attend these programs in comparison. This could be due to some of the advantages of in-office events such as convenience, smaller group sizes and better engagement.

Are There Any Silver Linings?

It is interesting to note that web programs at home and on-demand programs have seen almost no decline in providers’ likelihood to attend. In fact, these program types have now become the preferred programs of choice for providers.

For providers, the convenience of watching a web presentation at home lessens the time they would be away from their family and on-demand allows them to receive the information when it is most convenient for them.

For healthcare companies, the benefits of at home web and on-demand programs include less logistical issues, cost reductions, decreased travel for the speakers and the ability to reach a much broader audience.

So, although COVID-19 has eliminated much of the person-to-person contact once enjoyed from speaker programs, we know our healthcare providers are strong, resilient and adaptable. Healthcare companies have recognized this and together, they will find a way to overcome these new challenges!