Quick Answer
The best GMB primary category for most doctors in India is the most specific specialty available — 'Dentist' not 'Health', 'Gynaecologist' not 'Medical clinic'. Always add 2–3 secondary categories to capture related searches. Here is the complete list for 20 specialties.
Why GMB Categories Are Critical for Local Ranking
Your primary category tells Google what searches to show your listing for. Choosing 'Medical clinic' when you're a dentist means Google won't rank you for 'dentist near me' — its most common dental search query.
Category Combinations by Specialty
**Dentist**: Primary: Dentist | Secondary: Dental clinic, Cosmetic dentist, Orthodontist
**Dermatologist**: Primary: Dermatologist | Secondary: Skin care clinic, Laser hair removal service
**Gynaecologist**: Primary: Gynecologist | Secondary: Women's health clinic, Obstetrician-gynecologist
**General Physician**: Primary: General practitioner | Secondary: Medical clinic, Family practice physician
**Orthopaedic**: Primary: Orthopedic surgeon | Secondary: Sports medicine clinic, Physical therapy clinic
**Paediatrician**: Primary: Pediatrician | Secondary: Children's hospital, Child health clinic
**ENT**: Primary: Otolaryngologist | Secondary: Medical clinic, Audiologist
**Ophthalmologist**: Primary: Ophthalmologist | Secondary: Eye care center, Optician
**Physiotherapy**: Primary: Physical therapist | Secondary: Sports medicine clinic, Rehabilitation center
**Psychiatrist**: Primary: Psychiatrist | Secondary: Mental health service, Psychologist
How Many Categories Should You Add?
Add 1 primary + 2–4 secondary categories. Adding too many irrelevant secondary categories can dilute your ranking. Only add categories that genuinely describe services you offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can change your primary category at any time. The ranking impact of a category change typically takes 2–4 weeks to reflect in search results.
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