More than ever before, people can extensively weigh their options online. Whether a consumer is swiping through a dating app or making dinner reservations, they are doing it with profile pictures and menus at their fingertips.
We know patients approach healthcare decisions in a similar way. They want to be able to read and compare details easily before committing to who they feel is the right choice for their own needs. Providers should be sure to include the below details on either their website or profiles on platforms like Zocdoc so that patients can make the most informed choices about their care.
Photos and qualifications
Displaying photos of your medical providers can personalize them to potential patients before they even book, or make the trip to your office. Listing any qualifications and board-certifications creates an even more well-rounded portrait of a provider. Knowing they are properly qualified can inspire trust and drive patients to book.
Insurance information
Navigating American health insurance is an arduous process. In Zocdoc’s insurance confidence survey, 77% of insured Americans would like an easier way to ensure their doctor is in-network when booking appointments. Clearly listing which insurance plans you take in-network on your website, or your profile on Zocdoc, can help patients weed out which providers aren’t right for them.
Inclusivity
Cultural competency in healthcare is defined as a practice’s ability to tailor healthcare to meet patients’ social, cultural and linguistic needs. As a medical practice, you want to make sure you’re clear on where you are culturally competent by listing languages your providers speak or any professional organizations that cater to specific populations they’re a part of.
This information can be vital to immigrants, along with trauma survivors and members of the LGBTQ+ or BIPOC communities, when they’re choosing a doctor. It also reflects a dedication to transparency, which can make your business appear more trustworthy.
All in all, the more details you put forward, the better. You also shouldn’t bury any of this information behind links; if patients have to click around to learn that you speak Spanish, they might never learn it.
Joining Zocdoc, or another site or app that lets patients search and filter for providers, is a win because patients can find you through customized searches, based on the criteria they care about.