Maximize Patient Visibility Using Google Business Profiles

Want to attract more patients and outrank nearby clinics? Start by focusing on the most visible part of your online presence—your Google Business Profile. A strong Google Business Profile setup is essential for healthcare providers looking to stand out in local search. While it’s tempting to prioritize websites, referral programs, and paid campaigns, one tool consistently outperforms them all in terms of visibility: your business listing on Google. In fact, local listings often receive 5–10 times more views than the average medical practice’s homepage, physician bios, and location pages—combined.

Whether you’re marketing a multi-location group or an individual specialist, your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is critical to how patients discover, evaluate, and select your services. Let’s walk through exactly how to make it work harder for you.

Control How You Show Up in Local Search

Be Where Patients Look First

When someone searches “pediatrician near me” or types in your practice name, your listing is what shows up first in the map pack. It highlights your hours, reviews, photos, and contact details—often before a user even sees your website.

This isn’t something you can afford to overlook. Patients are making decisions directly from search results. In practical terms, that makes your Google listing your new homepage.

Google Business Profile Setup: How to Set Up or Claim Your Profile

Start with the Essentials

To begin, go to google.com/business and click Manage Now. If no listing exists for your practice, you’ll be prompted to create one by entering key details:

• Practice name

• Physical address

• Primary and secondary categories (e.g., “Pediatric Clinic,” “Urgent Care Center”)

• Phone number and website

• Hours of operation

Already see your practice listed in the search? If it shows Own this business?, you can claim and verify it on the spot. If it says Suggest an edit, someone else has claimed it—you’ll need to request access or initiate a transfer of ownership.

Verification often happens by postcard, which typically arrives within 5–10 days. That said, other methods like phone or email may be available depending on your account’s history and Google’s options for your listing.

Build Patient Trust with Complete and Accurate Details

Perfect Your NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number)

Be consistent. Use the same business name across all directories, exactly as it appears on your signage. Double-check that your address and phone number are accurate, especially if you’ve relocated or changed suites.

Additionally, update your business hours regularly. Include special holiday hours so patients aren’t left wondering if you’re open.

Add Categories and Services

Start by selecting a primary category that best reflects your specialty—such as “Family Medicine” or “Dermatology Clinic.” From there, add secondary categories like “Allergy Testing” or “Telehealth Provider.” These additions increase your chances of appearing in more targeted searches.

Use Photos to Boost Engagement

Upload clear, professional images of your staff, waiting areas, exam rooms, and exterior signage. Listings with photos not only appear more trustworthy but also see higher click-through rates.

Don’t stop at visuals. Post regular updates about flu shot availability, health events, or seasonal tips. These updates act like mini social media posts, giving patients another reason to engage with your profile.

Multiply Your Visibility with Multiple Listings

One Location, Many Providers? List Them Individually

If your clinic houses multiple doctors or specialists, each provider is eligible for their own Google Business Profile. Just make sure each listing includes unique identifiers like name, phone line, or suite number. This approach boosts your clinic’s chances of appearing in more searches.

The same rule applies to practices with multiple physical locations. Create a separate listing for each address to ensure you’re showing up in localized results across the map.

Aim for the Local 3-Pack

Appearing in the local 3-pack—the top three results in Google’s map section—is a major visibility win. It’s where most search clicks and appointment bookings take place. The more complete and active your listing, the better your odds of landing there.

To increase your chances, make sure your profile includes:

• Updated services and categories

• Positive patient reviews

• Accurate contact and location details

• Regular posts and high-quality images

This is more than a directory listing. It’s a key driver of patient acquisition. Google Business Profiles influence search visibility, shape first impressions, and even sync with insurance and review sites.

Take control of it. Put it to work. And if you need guidance managing multiple providers or locations, reach out. We’ll help you build a strong local presence that converts searches into new patients.