The latest consumer statistics suggest that more than 90 percent of potential patients will research your practice online before making a decision on where they will go for their health care. Will they find you online? Will they like what they see?
Potential patients go online to find out information doctors and their practice. They want to get a sense of who you are, if other patients like you, and if visiting you will be convenient. Some want to be able to make an appointment, submit paperwork, get lab results, and pay online.
What's in it for you? Credibility is high on the list, even if you have a simple, but informative website, and especially if you have good reviews on physician rating sites (ask current patients to post them). Nowadays, wouldn't you look at reviews and websites before you engaged the services a professional outside the area of your expertise, such as a contractor or a financial planner? On your website, list physician bios, credentials, specialties, interests, and patient-care philosophy.
A website can be a time-saver for you, too. Posting frequently asked questions and articles relevant to your clinical practice will help your patients feel understood and informed, and save time in the exam room. Including information your services, which insurance plans you accept, and what to expect on the first visit can reduce phone calls and streamline check-in. Posting patient forms that they can print out and fill out ahead of time saves time, too.
Above all, make your website attractive and easy to use, with the most important information on the home page. Experts say you have three seconds to show a new visitor what you do, where you are located, and how best to contact you.
For additional tips, read these TMA webpages:
TMA Practice E-Tips main page