When your medical practice relocates, there’s a lot to do. Updating your online contact information can require more time than physically relocating. While it sounds like the time requirement is overestimated, Internet information is viral. So, let’s take a look at things to add to your to do list.
Internet Contact Information
Google’s algorithm looks for updates for every physical location. In addition, it also considers updates from readers. So, it makes sense that many online sites and directories pull this information for listings. Achieving information consistency in advance can minimize your work. Here are things to consider.
- If you have multiple locations, choose one for your primary address. While Google allows multiple listings, many review sites have one listing for each doctor. You’ll also need to go through most of the steps in this blog if you decide to change your primary address.
- Keep your Google My Business listing updated so other sites pull correct contact information for your medical practice.
- Claim and update your listings on review sites and directories. You can do this manually, or PUMC’s Global Online Review System can automate this task and lock down your listings.
Online Changes when Medical Practice Relocates
At the time of your move, your staff or marketing agency needs to update your online information. Below is list of places to look in order of priority.
- Change Google My Business listings for the practice as well as each doctor in the practice. Review your service areas to ensure they are correct.
- Go to each of your review sites to update your contact information. Yelp, WebMD, RateMDs, Vitals, Healthgrades, RealSelf and ZocDoc are some of the typical sites for doctors.
- Update your contact information in all social media. Most of our clients have Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. Don’t forget to post about your new address.
- Revise information in online directories and associations. If you don’t have an automated service, search for the doctor or practice name with the location.
Printed and Local Changes
Many medical practices and doctors are involved in their communities, associations and conferences. In addition, your patients need to be told. Here are some communicate possibilities when your medical practice relocates.
- Mail a letter announcing your relocation. You may choose to write one for patients and a different one for other contacts.
- Send your newsletter or eblast electronically to announce the move. Remember to update staff email addresses and other electronic communications while you are there.
- Change your address on printed materials such as invoices, handouts, envelopes, etc.
Boost Your Visibility When Your Medical Practice Relocates
When you medical practice relocates, boost your online visibility so that more people see it. This is an ideal time to advertise key procedures, events and/or products.
- Advertise via Google Ads and/or social media.
- Notify your local newspapers or magazines.
- Host an event at your new location
- Soliciting more reviews is a great way to reach out and get more visibility.
There’s a lot to do when your medical practice relocates. If you don’t have the staff or find it overwhelming, contact PUMC. We can give you a list you feel comfortable managing or we can take care of your updates. It must happen, but the choice on how you get there is yours.
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