An Overview of SEO in the Healthcare Space
Let’s review search engine optimization (SEO) in the healthcare industry—it’s that important! But before we begin, let me share my personal experience with you. I have worked with over 30,000 practices and managed SEO for thousands of those practices.
Why do you think so many practices didn’t choose to add SEO to their online marketing strategy? It is often because they don’t understand it or know why they need it. SEO is different in healthcare, and I want to help you understand it.
SEO is Different in Healthcare
This is an area that isn’t covered in school, or anywhere after graduating. Odds are you’ll hear it in passing or from a colleague. At initial understanding of SEO, many doctors think they can be found instantly without having to try. That’s where you’re wrong. You might expect instant gratification, but search optimization takes time.
Incorporating SEO into your marketing strategy will help you generate new patients. By implementing the best practices, you can be seen online, which can help you reach more patients. SEO allows you to reach specific patients in your area the moment they search in Google.
What is SEO?
In short, SEO allows you to reach top Google page listings for the town or area you practice in. By utilizing specialty keywords that correlate with your office, you can be “seen” online through those specific keyword searches. For example, “dentist in Chicago” or “Chicago podiatrist” are keywords commonly used.
Not only is SEO used to generate higher rankings for your keywords, but it can also help you with reviews. We want to hear what patients are saying because that can reach new patients. Word-of-mouth (more like word-on-the-Internet) is the best way for new patients to find your practice. When you hear someone mention their experience, you’re more prone to go to that office or store, right? Exactly. With SEO, you can have improved rankings, reviews and listings—a win-win for you and your patients.
Is SEO for Me?
Yes, absolutely! Look at your neighborhood—how competitive (digitally) is your neighborhood and specialty? If you’re in Chicago, Los Angeles or New York City, odds are the digital platform is going to be quite busy and competitive. Then, ask yourself these questions:
- Do you need more new patients?
- How good is my website?
- Is my website content good?
- If I invest $200-$300 a month to get 5-20 new patients, is that worth it? YES!
Unless you’re scheduled out months or a year in advance, you’re going to want new patients. And, if your website or content isn’t meeting the needs of your patients, you’ll need to act fast. A good website with quality content and well thought out SEO strategy is the main key to success and a knowledgeable service provider can help you with that.
Interested in learning more? Take our survey to find out more about your SEO rankings and you might benefit from adding it to your marketing plan. Advancing your practice and gaining new patients is easy with a proper SEO plan.
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