A young doctor went to look at a practice that was up for sale in a very remote part of West Virginia. It looked perfect with a comfortable house, fully equipped lab, and lovely gardens.
The old doctor even quoted a very affordable price. "This looks great, " said the young doctor.
"I just can't figure out how you're able to have such a nice set up with so few people to practice on. "It's just simple, common sense and a strong work ethic, " replied the older medico. "For example, most folks around here take a couple weeks off for a vacation every year. My wife and I, however, spend the time at home, gardening and putting things in order. Our herb garden gives us a huge harvest because of that, so we mix the herbs and boil them up for my secret tonic.
" "But that doesn't explain this fine house and all this land, " said the younger man. The elder doc replied, "That's where going that extra bit pays off. I run into my patients at church, at the store, whatever, right after they get back from their vacations. I tell them they don't look too good, and they usually say that their vacation took a lot out of them.
" He continued, "I'll agree with them, then invite them to stop around to my office for some of my old fashioed tonic, and at ten bucks a bottle, it can add up really fast! Of course, that's just the beginning.
A few weeks after a patient buys the tonic, I comment on how much better they're looking, so that they feel like the tonic is working." "Then I have them stop by the office for a complete physical exam, just to make sure everything is alright. I also tell them to bring in a specimen, and this way I get my bottles back!" |
