When a family needs a doctor, the search usually starts the same way: someone types "gynaecologist near me" or "best ortho doctor in Meerut" into Google. The first thing they see is not your website. It is the map with three clinics under it.
That map section comes from Google Business Profile (earlier called Google My Business). For most doctors in Tier 2 cities, it is the single most important free marketing tool they have, and most profiles are only half complete.
Here is a simple checklist you can follow this week.
1. Claim and verify your profile
Search your clinic's name on Google Maps. If a profile already exists, claim it. If not, create one at business.google.com.
- Use your real clinic name, exactly as on your board. Do not add extra keywords like "Best Gynaecologist" to the name. Google can suspend profiles for this.
- Choose the most accurate primary category, for example "Gynaecologist", "Orthopaedic surgeon" or "Dentist".
- Complete the verification Google asks for. An unverified profile rarely shows up.
2. Fill every detail, not just the basics
Patients decide in seconds. A complete profile answers their questions before they call.
- Address and map pin: check the pin is on your actual entrance.
- Phone number: one that is answered during OPD hours.
- Timings: including special hours on festivals.
- Services: list what you actually do, such as "Normal delivery", "Knee replacement" or "Root canal treatment".
- Description: two or three plain sentences on who you help and where. No superlatives or guarantees.
3. Add real photos, and keep adding them
A profile with clear, recent photos feels trustworthy. A profile with no photos feels closed.
Start with at least 20 photos:
- The clinic board from the street, so patients recognise it
- Reception and waiting area
- OPD room and equipment (without any patient in frame)
- You and your team
Then add a few new photos every month.
4. Ask for reviews the right way
Reviews are what a worried family reads most closely. The goal is a steady flow of honest reviews, not a sudden spike.
- Keep a small QR code card at reception that opens your review link.
- Ask satisfied patients after the consultation, in simple words.
- Never offer discounts or gifts for reviews, and never write fake ones. Both break Google's rules.
5. Reply to every review
This is the step most doctors skip, and it is one of the easiest wins.
- Thank patients for positive reviews by name, briefly.
- For negative reviews, stay calm and polite, and invite them to contact the clinic directly.
- Never mention a diagnosis, treatment or any medical detail in a reply. Patient privacy comes first.
Families read your replies to understand how you treat people.
6. Post one update every week
Google Business Profile has a "posts" feature, and very few clinics use it. A short weekly post keeps your profile active.
Ideas that work for doctors:
- A simple health tip related to your speciality
- Clinic timing changes or holiday hours
- A free health camp or awareness day
7. Answer common questions on your profile
Add the questions patients ask your staff every day, with short, factual answers: parking, appointment process, which tests to bring. It saves your reception time too.
A note on NMC guidelines
Doctors in India must follow the NMC's professional conduct rules. On your profile and posts, focus on patient education and accurate information. Avoid claims like "best", "guaranteed results" or before-and-after promises, and never share patient details without written consent.
Quick checklist
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Verify profile and correct category | Once |
| Complete address, timings, services | Once, then update when anything changes |
| Add photos | 20 to start, then a few every month |
| Ask for reviews | Every day, at reception |
| Reply to reviews | Within a day or two |
| Post an update | Every week |
Want to know where your profile stands?
Most doctors are surprised by what is missing. Take our free 2-minute Google + Instagram check and get your score and top three fixes instantly. If you'd like us to handle it for you, chat with Karunya Digital on WhatsApp.
