“How do you project trust through a website?”
Since choosing a health care professional requires a great deal of trust, this question is a valid one. Here are few ways to communicate that you are deserving of patient trust on your website and your online communications.
- Testimonials*: Testimonials work. When choosing testimonials for your site, choose ones that speak to your level of service, your character, as well as your experience and expertise.
“Dr. C and her staff made me feel comfortable from the moment I made my first appointment. I knew I had selected the right doctor for my treatment. The staff was professional and friendly.” M.C.
“When my primary care doctor recommended that I see Dr. V for my surgery, I knew she trusted him. She had the same procedure done last year and chose him as her surgeon! You can’t get a better recommendation!” B.R.S
“Knowing that Dr. M had been in practice for over 20 years, gave me the confidence that I needed to make the right choices. My surgery was a complete success. I recommend him to everyone!” A.M.
- Doctor & Staff Qualifications: Make sure to include the qualifications of your entire patient care team. You want the patients to know that they are being cared for by a trained and skilled team from the beginning of their encounter to the end. The professionalism and certifications of the whole staff should be showcased both in the office and online.
- Photos: Photos of the doctors and the staff members help to make patients feel welcome in the office. Also be sure to include “action shots” of common procedures. Knowing what to expect will help patients to be more comfortable when it is their turn in the exam rooms.
- Blogs: A doctor that takes the time to educate his or her patients, is one that insures that patients make informed decisions about their health. Blogs that are friendly, readable and informative, set the tone that this office is patient-focused.
A “trust-worthy” online presence invites patients to your practice with a promise of quality care. Careful crafting of your online image separates you from others in your field. Trust is a factor in selecting a physician; make sure that you present the experience and expertise deserving of patient trust.
*If you want to include testimonials, you have to ask for them. Make sure to survey patients about their experience. To learn more about gathering testimonials see the CareLink Blog Patient Testimonials – a Great Resource!