April 2025 healthcare observances and marketing ideas

Like the other 11 months of the year, April is chock-full of healthcare observances. By planning marketing activities around these days and weeks, medical practices can not only do their part to raise awareness, but also leverage these observances to strengthen their relationships with patients and the greater community.

April offers 5 specific month-long marketing opportunities to engage patients:

Here are additional observances to have on your radar throughout April:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 children in the United States, making it one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders. Despite all that we know about it, stigma and misconceptions about autism persist. Not only does this often lead to social isolation for the individual, but it also creates barriers to accessing services and support they may need. 

First observed in April 1970 by the Autism Society of America, Autism Awareness Month was established to raise public awareness about the disorder. Today, April continues to be Autism Awareness Month, a month-long observance dedicated to increasing understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with ASD. Beyond awareness, the observance aims to promote early diagnosis, intervention, and support for individuals with autism and their families.

Occupational Therapy Month, established in April 1980 by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), spotlights the vital role occupational therapists (OTs) play in helping individuals of all ages participate in the things they want and need to do through therapeutic use of everyday activities. 

This month-long observance aims to educate the public about how occupational therapy helps people of all ages overcome physical, developmental, and cognitive challenges to live fuller, more independent lives through customized interventions that improve daily functioning. In 2025, the OT Month theme is “Occupational Therapy: Inspiring Hope, Changing Lives.”

As of 2023, there were approximately 150,000 OTs employed in the US, offering occupational therapy services for conditions ranging from developmental delays and injuries to chronic diseases and cognitive impairments.

Child Abuse Prevention Month, first proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1983, raises awareness of the devastating impact of child abuse and neglect while promoting effective prevention strategies and support systems for vulnerable families. The aim of this observance is to empower communities to take action in creating safe, stable, and nurturing environments where all children can thrive without the threat of abuse or neglect.

According to the 2023 Child Maltreatment Report from the Administration for Children & Families, an estimated 600,000 children experienced abuse or neglect in 2021 in the US. Healthcare providers have a crucial role in early identification and intervention.

According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 28.9 million Americans ages 12 and older (10.2% of people in this age group) had alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the previous year.

Alcohol Awareness Month is dedicated to increasing public awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and the serious consequences associated with alcohol use disorder. The goals are to reduce the stigma surrounding alcoholism and addiction, educate communities about prevention and treatment options, and encourage individuals and families affected by alcohol problems to seek help.

According to the CDC, minority populations are at higher risk of poor health. Unfortunately, poor-quality healthcare and disparities in access often contribute to higher mortality rates among these groups (compared to non-Hispanic whites). To reduce health disparities, we must address social determinants of health — such as socioeconomic status, education, and access to healthcare.

Established by the Office of Minority Health within the US Department of Health and Human Services in 2002, National Minority Health Month aims to do just that. Observed annually in April, this observance is dedicated to raising awareness about health disparities that affect ethnic and racial minority communities, including African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, and Pacific Islander people in the US. The observance seeks to promote health equity and encourage action to address these disparities by providing access to quality healthcare, education, and resources. 

In addition to the month-long observances mentioned above, there are plenty of week-long healthcare observances and special days your practice can leverage to educate your patients and the greater community.  

While many of us may not feel it, access to essential healthcare services remains a challenge for millions of people worldwide. Preventable diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS continue to pose significant public health threats, particularly in low and middle-income countries. 

In 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) was established as a specialized arm of the United Nations that advocates for universal healthcare coverage, health equity, and disease prevention. Its goal is to ensure all people have access to quality healthcare services without financial hardship. 

That same year, World Health Day was observed to commemorate its founding. Today, World Health Day is celebrated annually on April 7. Each year, it focuses on a specific theme or health issue of global significance. This year, the theme is “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” aiming to highlight the importance of investing in maternal, newborn, and child health to ensure a healthy and productive future for all generations.

Positive patient experiences are associated with better clinical outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and improved treatment plan adherence. To enhance those experiences, healthcare professionals must focus on improved communication, empathy, and respect for patient preferences. 

Observed in April, Patient Experience Week (PX Week) celebrates and recognizes the importance of patient-centered care and the contributions of healthcare professionals in delivering positive healthcare experiences. Patient Experience Week was established by The Beryl Institute to honor healthcare staff and organizations committed to excellence in patient care. Today, The Beryl Institute remains dedicated to improving the patient experience in healthcare. 

Each month offers your practice fantastic opportunities to raise awareness of health disorders and conditions. April, however, presents some unique opportunities (World Health Day, Patient Experience Week) for you to work with your local communities to create a more equitable, inclusive, and patient-centered healthcare system.