Can you remove a Google review?
Google will remove reviews that violate its content policies: fake reviews, spam, off-topic content, reviews containing personal information, and reviews with illegal content. The process is straightforward but the success rate is mixed.
To flag a review for removal:
- Go to your Google Business Profile
- Find the review
- Click the three dots and select "Flag as inappropriate"
- Google reviews the flag (typically within a few days to a few weeks)
Google will not remove a review simply because it is negative, unfair, or inaccurate. If a patient or client had a genuine (if unreasonable) experience and left a one-star review describing it, that review is likely to stay.
The medical professional's dilemma
Doctors face a unique challenge with Google reviews. Under AHPRA advertising guidelines, you cannot use patient testimonials. But patients can leave reviews about you. And you cannot confirm or deny a doctor-patient relationship in your response, which limits what you can say.
This creates an asymmetry: the patient can say anything, and your response must be carefully generic. The best approach is a professional, empathetic response that addresses the concern without confirming clinical details.
When you cannot get a review removed
If the review stays (and most do), the strategy shifts to dilution:
- Encourage positive reviews from satisfied clients (ethically and within professional guidelines)
- Respond professionally to every negative review, showing prospective clients that you handle criticism with grace
- Build your overall search profile so that Google reviews become a smaller proportion of what people see when they search your name
- Create content that ranks alongside or above the Google Business Profile listing
How we help
We develop a complete review management strategy tailored to your profession and regulatory environment. This includes review response templates, ethical approaches to generating positive reviews, and a broader content strategy that reduces the impact of any single negative review.
Contact: clare@narrativedigital.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a doctor get a Google review removed in Australia?
Google will remove reviews that violate its policies (fake, spam, personal information). It will not remove a review simply because it is negative or unfair. Doctors must also comply with AHPRA advertising guidelines when responding to reviews.
How do I respond to a negative Google review as a doctor?
Respond professionally and empathetically without confirming or denying a doctor-patient relationship. Acknowledge the concern, offer to discuss offline, and demonstrate professionalism. Do not reference clinical details.
Can someone who is not a patient leave a Google review?
Yes. Google does not restrict who can leave a review. If the review violates Google policies (fake identity, harassment, off-topic), it can be flagged for removal.