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Get More Patients From Google

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​When people search for information on health conditions and treatment options near them, Google displays search results that give preference to healthcare providers located closest to the searcher’s physical location.

To determine a healthcare provider’s location, Google relies on the data verified in the Google My Business (GMB) profile. This is why it’s important for practices to complete their GMB listing.

What is Google My business?
It’s a free tool offered by google to help businesses manage their presence on Google owned properties such as Google Search and Google Maps. You can find out how to add your listing here: https://www.google.com/intl/en/business/

Why should I complete a GMB profile?
When prospective patients conduct research, they’re going to “Google” you and your practice. Registering your GMB profile is how you increase the presence of your practice in the search results.

You want to add as much information as you can to the GMB profile so that when your “knowledge box” appears to the right of the search results, information the searcher wants is available.

The knowledge box provides pictures, a map to your practice, reviews, ratings, links to your website and office hours. New options include adding video content as well as events.

Having a GMB profile also gives a boost to your practice for local keyword searches. The more effort you put into completing the profile, the more Google rewards your listing with higher search results placements.

Tips:

► When registering your practice, create a Google account for the practice and not a personal account.

► You’ll need to select your business category. Most practices choose “medical practice” in the drop down but there are some distinct options, such as “orthopedic surgeon” if you search.

► Provide your practice phone number for registration, not a personal number. Google will want to verify the information you provide. Previously, a postcard mailed from Google to your practice with an activation code was required. Within the last year, most areas of the country can now verify the practice information by phone. When you click to submit your profile, be near the phone once you click the “register” button as the call comes in within minutes.

​► Fill out as many data elements as possible. Google states in its information that “full GMB profiles get 5x the views”. Google rewards those who provide the most information. Use this opportunity to provide more content than you competitors. 

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