The importance of monitoring your online reputation cannot be overstated…
An increasing number of people are turning to the Internet to search for doctors and medical practices. With websites like WebMD, HealthGrades, and Vitals, patients can easily check the credentials and reputation of their medical practitioners as well as voice their complaints for the world to see. This is why it’s necessary to monitor your online reputation before negative comments damage your image. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to proactively manage what people see about your practice online.
Claiming your business listings on sites like Google and keeping those profiles complete and up-to-date should be high on your to-do list. If the first few search engine listings for your practice are negative or poor-quality this can be a dealbreaker for patients who are in the initial stages of their search for a provider.
The cornerstone of online reputation for the healthcare industry is reviews. After performing a stellar service, ask satisfied patients to leave you a review to begin building your practice’s online visibility and star rating. Remember to also respond to all of your reviews, both positive and negative. Replying to reviews shows that you take your patient’s concerns seriously and adds to your credibility. Just be mindful to keep conversations professional and avoid arguing with anyone online—your replies are public.
Finally, creating a survey helps you to gain feedback on how well your practice is meeting patient needs. Analyze the responses and use them to improve your operations, in turn gaining more positive reviews. If an answer really stands out, showcase the positive feedback on your website or marketing materials as a testimonial.
Taking steps to proactively manage your online reputation can save you from headaches in the future. To learn about additional ways online reputation management can benefit your practice, visit micromd.com/demandforce, email John Webb, or call 800-624-8832.
