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Years ago, I had my wisdom teeth removed by a nearby provider without doing much research. My selection criteria were simple: close and available. Later, when I mentioned this choice to my dentist, their concerned look was unforgettable. It was as if I’d casually admitted to skydiving without a parachute. Clearly, that provider had a bad reputation.
Back then, I made decisions based on gut feelings and proximity. But now, with the abundance of online reviews, I wouldn’t dream of such a reckless approach. Today, I always check online reviews before choosing a healthcare provider. This habit isn’t unique to me. Many in my generation and the ones following rely heavily on Google reviews to make informed decisions. We’re not blindly trusting anymore; we’re empowered by information.
Why This Matters
Online presence is crucial for healthcare providers. People heavily rely on Google and other search engines to choose their doctors. A low star rating can push you to the bottom of their list. Even if you have a high rating but only a few reviews compared to a competitor with hundreds, people tend to trust the one with more reviews.
Negative experiences often prompt patients to leave reviews without being asked. Those who had good experiences might not think to leave feedback unless prompted. Without intervention, your reviews can be unfairly skewed by negative feedback. Research shows that 90% of patients use online reviews to evaluate physicians, and 77% use them as their first step in finding a new doctor.
The need for positive reviews will increase as Millennials and Gen Z start seeking healthcare services more frequently. These generations rely heavily on digital reviews. Staying ahead of this trend is essential .
How Calvient Helps
Calvient Channels helps by sending a text to patients after their visit, asking for a quick survey and a Google review. This proactive approach ensures that satisfied patients share their positive experiences online. Competitors are already leveraging similar strategies, so it’s crucial to adopt this approach too. There is also a significant service recovery opportunity here. Addressing valid complaints found online is important, but it requires the right tools to manage effectively. Channels can help you see and respond to these reviews.
Conclusion
Managing online reviews is not just a nice-to-have strategy. It’s critical for patient acquisition. A strong online reputation attracts more patients. It also aids in service recovery, turning unhappy patients into loyal ones. Furthermore, you’ll be prepared for the influx of Millennial and Gen Z patients who will soon flood the healthcare system. Tools like Calvient Channels help ensure your ratings reflect the quality of care you provide, keeping your practice competitive in a digital-first world.
References
- https://b2b.healthgrades.com/insights/blog/online-reviews-impact-how-patients-select-hospitals-doctors/