Patients read reviews in more places than most practices track. But time is limited, and claiming a dozen profiles you never update can do more harm than good. Here’s how to decide where to focus.
Google comes first
For most local searches, Google’s map results are the first thing a patient sees, and the star rating and review count sit right next to your name. If you only manage one review profile well, make it Google.
Healthcare-specific sites
Healthgrades, Vitals, WebMD Care and similar directories often rank for searches on a doctor’s name. Claim the profiles for each provider, make sure the details are correct, and check them every few months. Some insurers’ provider directories matter too, because patients use them to check who’s in network.
Yelp and Facebook
Yelp matters more for some specialties and cities than others, such as dental and cosmetic practices in large metro areas. Facebook reviews matter where your patients are active there. Check where reviews of your practice already appear before investing time.
A simple routine
- Ask every patient for a review, with a direct link to Google as the default.
- Check all claimed profiles monthly for new reviews and wrong details.
- Reply to reviews without confirming anyone is a patient or mentioning their care.
- Report fake or abusive reviews through each site’s own process.
Stay within the rules
The FTC’s rule on reviews bans fake reviews, incentives tied to positive reviews and suppression of negative ones, and Google doesn’t allow incentives for reviews at all. Read our guide on asking patients for reviews without breaking the FTC rule, or see our reviews and reputation service.
This article is general information, not legal advice.