A Recap on Google’s April 2018 Announcement on Addiction Treatment Ads
In April 2018, Google announced advertisers for addiction treatment centers in the U.S. would once again be allowed to use the popular Google Ads platform upon certification with LegitScript, a third-party verification and monitoring service working to stop the spread of deceptive and abusive advertising practices seen in the addiction treatment industry.
This week, the first class of addiction treatment providers received their certifications, clearing the way for them to advertise on Google Ads once again and ending a months-long advertising ban. According to LegitScript’s communications specialist, David Khalaf, over 100 treatment providers have been approved and certified.
First Thoughts on the Certification Process
As more and more treatment centers apply for certification, it’s noteworthy to add that LegitScript’s application process is still in its infancy and that providers are continually offering suggestions to tweak and adjust the 15 steps needed to meet approval criteria. According to treatment centers that have been certified, completing the entire application process is a rigorous task. A substantial number of records are needed, including documentation for policies, procedures, staff rosters, and licenses.
Is It Worth It?
Yes.
Being certified legitimizes addiction treatment facilities and the industry as a whole. The sheer number of options for treatment online can be overwhelming. Potential patients looking for help can now see if the treatment center they’re considering has been verified thanks to a certification seal that links to LegitScript’s website. Call centers can make family member referrals to programs with more confidence than ever before.
Although earning LegitScript’s certification will require an investment of time, effort, and money, its benefits outweigh its costs. In the long run, it will eliminate unscrupulous providers and brokers using misleading or illegal tactics to attract patients, creating a safer and more transparent marketplace that delivers a better experience for patients.
How Scorpion Can Help
Since the rollout of the LegitScript evaluation process, Scorpion has helped numerous clients navigate the application while keeping them up-to-date with the latest news regarding addiction treatment marketing. As one of the few Google Premier Partners, Scorpion is uniquely situated to address the digital marketing needs of addiction treatment organizations, helping them create greater awareness of their services to people who need them.
Contact us to schedule a time to speak with an advertising specialist at Scorpion.
