How Google Business Profile and Reviews Can Help Your Practice Grow
For healthcare practices, being easily discoverable online can directly impact growth. Google Business Profile and local directories make it simple for potential patients to find your location, contact details, and hours — while signaling professionalism and trustworthiness. Optimizing these listings ensures you’re visible when it matters most, helping your practice attract more clients.
Why Reviews Matter
Online reviews are a cornerstone of modern healthcare marketing. In fact, 94% of healthcare patients use online reviews to evaluate providers . Moreover, 73% of patients consider online reviews when selecting a healthcare provider. (Sources: Invoca, RepuGen)
Patients trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, with 84% of consumers sharing this sentiment . Additionally, 93% of consumers are more likely to choose a healthcare provider with positive reviews over one without. (Sources: Sprypt, Healthcare Success)
The quantity of reviews also plays a significant role. Research indicates that the number of reviews is more effective in influencing patient decisions compared to the overall review rating . (Source: PMC)
In summary, cultivating a robust online review presence not only enhances your practice's credibility but also directly influences patient acquisition and retention.
Practical Steps to Optimize Your Listings
Claim and complete your Google Business profile: Ensure all information is accurate and up to date. A complete profile makes your practice look professional and reliable.
Encourage reviews: Ask happy patients to leave a review. Provide direct links to make it easy and stress the value of their feedback.
Respond to reviews (even the negative ones): Thank positive reviewers and address concerns professionally. This shows you value feedback and care about your community.
Use other local directories: Don’t rely on Google alone; directories like Yelp, Healthgrades, or other reputable platforms can expand your reach and visibility.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Listings Fresh
Regularly post updates, news, or events through your Google Business profile. This not only keeps your information current but also improves your search ranking and engagement with your audience.
Audit Your Online Presence
Want to make sure your practice is visible to everyone searching for you? Contact me to audit your online presence and implement strategies that help you attract more patients.
