FASTSIGNS(R) News - Hospitals and Medical Facilities Help Patients and the Public Stay Healthy With Signs and Graphics

Market Wire, June, 2005

Taking a page out of marketing books, hospitals and medical facilities are using signs and graphics to reach their patients and the public, according to FASTSIGNS International, Inc., a worldwide sign and graphics company. For example, to inform people about health awareness programs, medical facilities often install large color banners promoting the programs on the side of buildings, in parking structures, above entrances and in main corridors.

"Along with all kinds of signs and graphics, banners help the institution display its marketing message in a professional and aesthetically appealing manner that is consistent with its image," said Drue Townsend, FASTSIGNS International's senior vice president of marketing.

"What many healthcare administrators might not know is that signs and graphics are one of the most affordable and powerful ways to build awareness and promote programs and services," she said. "Because of their relatively low cost and long life, signs and graphics can carry the marketing message of even the largest healthcare facility to more people per dollar invested than many other forms of advertising. A well-designed, well-placed sign can generate thousands of impressions each year."

In evaluating signs for healthcare facilities, managers should consider:

--  What will the sign be used for?
--  How long will it be used?
--  What message is the sign trying to convey?
--  What is the target audience for the sign?
--  What is the viewing distance for the sign and the length of time it
    will take for viewers to read it?
--  Where will the sign be placed and how will it be installed?
--  What is the budget for the sign project?
--  Are permits required or restrictions imposed on the sign?
--  What other signs are needed?
--  When is the sign needed?
    

The more than 460 FASTSIGNS® sign and graphics centers worldwide provide a wide range of custom sign and graphics for healthcare and medical customers. For more information, please visit www.fastsigns.com.

FOR A PHOTO, PLEASE COPY AND PASTE THIS URL INTO YOUR BROWSER: http://pr.fastsigns.com/PRODUCT PHOTOS/Photos--Healthcare/MVC-001S.jpg

PHOTO CAPTION:

Medical and hospital facilities use signs and graphics such as this hospital timeline display to inform and communicate with the public and patients.

Contact: Margaret Smallwood FASTSIGNS International, Inc. 214/346-5663 Email Contact