What We Learned While Exhibiting at SXSW 2019
This is the first year ANY LAB TEST NOW® participated in the hugely popular SXSW event in Austin, TX. We shared our brand experience at both the Wellness Expo and the Trade Show, which gave us many opportunities to talk to our customers, and those who were unfamiliar with our brand.
Here are a few things we learned, reconfirmed, and allowed us to truly re-engage with our purpose:
People care about being their best through “well care” and “self-care.”
There was yoga, meditation in the Peace Box, lettuce-growing subscription services and Kombucha. Prevention without medications is growing among both young and old. Emphasis on nutrition is also key.
People want to play a part in their overall healthcare strategy, and empowered to work alongside their physicians.
The internet has opened up a world of knowledge (some good, some bad). Not all doctors we met approved of the direct access lab testing model because they felt it left too much room for unqualified interpretation. Yet, many physicians came by and said “thank you” for being their when their patients were afraid of lab test costs, which could lead to non-compliant patients.
People want to know what they are going to pay at the time of service.
Many of those visiting our booth expressed receiving an unexpected lab testing bill, and felt a bit “stung.” They liked our transparent prices, and knowing they could still use their HSA or FSA cards was a nice surprise.
People are starting to question medical and/or recreational marijuana, and its impact on employer drug testing.
This is definitely a trending topic. Our friends at Quest Diagnostics recently told us that less than 1% of drug tests they have performed in the past year do not include THC. Folks are still being tested.
Parents are concerned with teen drug use and vaping, and won’t hesitate to randomly test.
We had multiple parents come talk to us, and they are concerned with their teen’s health and safety. One set of parents asked us about hosting information sessions on these issues to help them stay up-to-date. This is a great idea – we love when we learn from our customers.
There is confusion about lab tests performed using online collection kits versus walking into Any Lab Test Now.
These are two completely different business models and too much to write about here. In fact, it sounds like another blog! One quick fact – if you want your test results fast, just walk in and get your specimen collected at one of our stores. You’ll probably have your test results back before you receive that kit.
Why isn’t Any Lab Test Now in California, New York, New Jersey, etc.?
We met many, many people we are not yet able to serve. Each state regulates its direct access lab testing laws, which determines whether or not we are able to serve those communities. We appreciate these visitors’ interest.
We enjoyed the opportunity, and thanks to those that came and visited our booth, learned and shared. Next event – American Association of Naturopathic Physicians!
