Reviews
Practo vs Google Reviews for Doctors and Clinics — Where Patients Look and How to Manage Both
How Practo and Google Business Profile differ for doctors, dentists and clinics in India — discovery, reviews, bookings, cost — and a privacy-safe system to build patient feedback on both.
By Chamko Research Team Updated 1 min read
Quick answer
Patients searching "dentist near me" or a doctor's name on Google see Google reviews first, along with directions and the call button. Practo is a healthcare-specific platform where patients compare doctors and book appointments. Keep both profiles accurate and identical in name, address, timings and fees; prioritise Google reviews because they appear in Search and Maps for every patient; and follow strict privacy rules when replying.
Quick answer: Patients searching "dentist near me" or a doctor's name on Google see Google reviews first, along with directions and the call button. Practo is a healthcare-specific platform where patients compare doctors and book appointments. Keep both profiles accurate and identical in name, address, timings and fees; prioritise Google reviews because they appear in Search and Maps for every patient; and follow strict privacy rules when replying.
Where patients look
- Google: default for "near me" searches, doctor name searches and directions.
- Practo and similar platforms: patients comparing specialists, checking fees and booking slots.
Comparison
| Google Business Profile | Practo | |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery | Search and Maps for everyone | Patients using the platform |
| Reviews | Google reviews, visible widely | Platform feedback |
| Booking | Appointment link / call | Built-in booking |
| Cost | Free | Free listing; paid plans available |
Practitioner vs clinic listings
Clinics can have a profile, and individual doctors may have their own practitioner profiles following Google's guidelines (especially in multi-doctor practices). Keep names consistent (e.g., "Dr. Anita Mehta – Dentist" isn't allowed as a name with keywords; use "Dr. Anita Mehta").
Getting patient reviews ethically
- Ask after the consultation or treatment is complete — never during.
- A card or QR at reception with "Share your experience on Google".
- No incentives, no asking only happy patients.
- Never pressure vulnerable patients.
Replying with privacy
Don't confirm someone is a patient or discuss treatment in replies. Use our privacy-safe templates.
Frequently asked questions
Should I pay for Practo plans?
Measure where patients come from first; many clinics get most new patients from Google.
Can I copy Practo reviews to Google?
No — reviews must be posted by patients on each platform.
Can staff post reviews for the clinic?
No — conflict of interest.