Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s already influencing how patients search, how businesses operate, and how healthcare is delivered.
In this episode, I catch up with Jonathan Small to explore how AI is changing podiatry and why those who embrace it early will have a significant advantage. We also share real-world examples of how AI is already being used in marketing, systems, and even clinical decision-making.
AI Is Already Part of Your Patient Journey
Many podiatrists don’t realise that AI is already shaping patient behaviour.
From Google search results to conversational tools like ChatGPT, patients are now asking AI:
- What causes heel pain?
- Who should I see for foot pain?
- What’s the best treatment option?
If your content isn’t showing up in those answers, you’re invisible.
This is where Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO) becomes just as important as traditional SEO.
Why Early Adoption Matters
There are always four types of people when new technology appears:
- Early adopters
- Late adopters
- Reluctant users
- Those who ignore it completely
The reality? The earlier you embrace AI, the easier it becomes, and the bigger your advantage.
Practical Ways Podiatrists Can Use AI
AI isn’t just for tech experts. It’s a practical tool you can start using today. Some simple applications include:
- Writing blog articles in your voice
- Creating patient education content
- Improving website FAQs for AEO
- Developing marketing campaigns faster
- Streamlining admin and systems
- Improving your website text
Even small changes can save hours each week.
AI in Clinical Practice
AI is also changing how patients present to your clinic. Patients are now arriving with more detailed and often more accurate information than ever before. Much better than when they were just using Google.
Instead of resisting this, podiatrists should embrace it. Better-informed patients can lead to better conversations and improved outcomes if you guide them correctly.
The Real Barrier: Fear and Frustration
The biggest reason podiatrists don’t use AI isn’t cost or complexity… It’s discomfort. Like any new system, it feels awkward at first. But that frustration is often the point where real learning begins.
So overcome your fear of AI by using it. Starting slow is better than not starting at all.
10 Key Takeaways from this Episode
- AI is already influencing patient decisions
- ChatGPT is becoming a new search engine
- AEO is the next evolution of SEO
- Early adopters will gain a competitive advantage
- AI can dramatically reduce admin time
- Your prompts determine your results
- AI can help personalise your marketing
- Patients are becoming more informed before visits
- Perfection isn’t required, but progress is
- The best way to learn AI is to start using it
Ready to Use AI in Your Business?
If you want help integrating AI into your podiatry clinic, alongside improving your systems, marketing, and profitability, reach out to me via my website, tysonfranklin.com.
Let’s make your business simpler, smarter, and more successful.
If you enjoyed this episode of Podiatry Legends, please share it with a friend or fellow podiatrist.