Your clinic on Google Maps: ten steps that bring patients from nearby searches

When a patient types "dermatology clinic near me" or "paediatrician open now", the map appears before any website. At that moment the patient is ready to call or book, which is why the Google Maps profile is one of the highest-return patient sources for many clinics.

Ten steps

1. Make sure the profile is verified and managed by the facility's account, not a former employee's.
2. Choose the primary category precisely, then add relevant secondary categories.
3. Write the name exactly as it appears on your sign, without marketing words, which break Google's policy.
4. Keep hours current, including holidays and special occasions, ahead of time.
5. Add services under the names patients search for, with a short description of each.
6. Upload real photos: the entrance, reception, consultation rooms and team. Refresh them every few months.
7. Add your booking link or direct WhatsApp link.
8. Ask every satisfied patient for a review with a message after the visit that includes the direct link.
9. Reply to every review within a few days, without mentioning any medical details.
10. Publish a weekly update: a service, a useful fact, or a change in hours.

Multiple branches

Each branch has its own profile with its own address, number and hours. Keep branches in separate profiles, and create profiles only for real addresses.

What to measure

Google shows views, calls, direction requests and website clicks in the profile. Record them monthly, and connect them with the number of bookings from patients who said they found you on Maps.

In practice

Set aside an hour this week to review your profile against these ten steps. Most cost nothing, and the effect builds every month.