If you’re a pediatric occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech-language pathologist, parent coach, or child-focused clinician, you already understand the important role pediatricians play in a child’s development. For many families, pediatricians are the first professionals they turn to when developmental, sensory, or behavioral concerns arise. Reaching out to form a relationship may help to increase pediatrician referrals to your practice.
However, many excellent providers never receive referrals simply because pediatricians are unaware of their services. Reaching out with a thoughtful, professional email is an effective way to bridge that gap and begin building valuable referral relationships. Learn exactly what to include in an introductory email to a pediatrician, and get access to a free email script you can download and customize for your own outreach.
Why Pediatrician Outreach Matters
Pediatricians are often asked questions like:
- “Should I be concerned about my child’s behavior?”
- “Is it normal that my child isn’t walking/talking yet?”
- “Do I need to see a specialist?”
When you position yourself as a trusted referral partner, someone who understands how to support families through these types of questions, pediatricians are more likely to keep your name on hand. Outreach builds visibility and connection. It makes it easier for pediatricians to confidently refer families to high-quality professionals in their area or specialty.
What to Include in a Pediatrician Referral Email
A well-crafted outreach email should be concise, respectful, and easy to act on. The goal is to introduce yourself and let the pediatrician know what you do and how you support families in a way that aligns with their needs.
Here’s what to include:
1. A clear subject line
This could be something like “Local Pediatric Support Services – Introduction” or “Referral Resource for Developmental & Sensory Support.”
2. A brief introduction
Include your name, credentials, and your role in supporting children and families. For example: “I’m a pediatric occupational therapist in [City] supporting children with sensory processing challenges, fine motor delays, and self-regulation needs.”
3. A focus on shared goals
Acknowledge that pediatricians are often the first point of contact for concerned families, and express your goal of being a helpful, family-friendly referral option.
4. An invitation to connect
Offer to send a flyer, share a short service summary, or schedule a brief call. Mention that you’re also happy to share progress notes when appropriate.
5. Your full contact information
Make it easy to follow up.
You don’t need to include every detail about your services. Your initial message is simply a way to open the door for future collaboration.
How to Build Long-Term Referral Relationships
Sending one email is only the first step. Here are a few ways to maintain and strengthen connections with pediatricians over time:
- Follow up after a couple of weeks if you haven’t received a response
- Send a seasonal update with your availability or a helpful resource
- Provide a printed flyer or brochure for their office
- Stay in touch quarterly with short, value-based communication
- Be responsive and collaborative if a referral is made
Relationships take time to develop, and consistency matters. The more helpful and reliable you are, the more likely pediatricians will think of you when a family needs additional support.
What Pediatricians Value in a Referral Partner
To establish trust, it helps to understand what pediatricians are looking for in referral partners:
- Clear, concise communication
- Simple explanations of your services and who you help
- A willingness to coordinate care and share updates when appropriate
- Professionalism and respect for their time and expertise
The more aligned your communication is with these values, the more likely it is that pediatricians will view you as a trusted resource.
Common Outreach Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-intentioned emails can fall flat. Here are a few things to watch for:
- Writing lengthy or overly technical emails
- Failing to explain your services clearly
- Forgetting to include contact information
- Making the email all about your qualifications without considering how it serves the pediatrician’s patients
- Never following up or staying in touch
Keep your email focused, collaborative, and easy to act on.
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Take the First Step with the FREE Pediatrician Referral Email Template
Professional outreach doesn’t have to be complicated. One clear, respectful email can be the beginning of a referral relationship that helps more families get the support they need. If you’re ready to introduce yourself to pediatricians in your area or simply want to update your current outreach materials start with our free email template. You can personalize it in just a few minutes and begin reaching out with confidence and clarity.
