When healthcare professionals consider building a new website, whether in psychology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy or speech pathology, it’s often challenging to know where to start and what to budget. As with many things, website costs can vary significantly depending on what you’re looking for. A basic website can be similar to a second-hand car – affordable but not built for performance. On the other hand, a site designed to bring in more bookings, improve user experience, and position your brand to the right kind of audience can be a more strategic investment, priced like a high-performance Ferrari. And as with anything in your business, it’s worthwhile investing the right amount upfront so you’re not having to re-do things a few months later (which I often have to do for clients who come to me unhappy with their previous results).
Here’s a guide to understanding what you can expect to invest for a website tailored to your field and your patients’ needs.
Cost guide for therapy and allied health websites
A basic healthcare or medical website can start at a few hundred dollars if you decide to take it offshore, but for a professional, customised website that drives more patient engagement and meets healthcare guidelines, you’ll generally look at a range from $3,000 to $6,000 AUD. For a website featuring more pages than the standard brochure site or more complex functionality, you’re looking at more around the $10,000 mark.
More often than not, the higher price tags will mean your designer is skilled in design for healthcare specifically. As healthcare professionals are aware, they are subject to strict regulation and advetising guidelines and risk large fines if not adhered to. And their unique audiences require a highly accessible website.
Let’s take a look at why it’s worth investing in a designer or developer who may have this experience:
What to look for in a healthcare web designer
- Experience in the field
A designer with experience in healthcare understands the specific needs of therapy and allied health websites, ensuring your online presence aligns with best practices and won’t get you in trouble with governing bodies. Working with someone who knows your industry means your site will reflect a patient-first approach, avoiding overly complex jargon and focusing on an intuitive, welcoming experience. A good healthcare designer will be across Medicines Australia code of conduct, as well as AHPRA. - Which brings me to…AHPRA compliance
Healthcare professionals in Australia must comply with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) guidelines. If your website isn’t AHPRA-compliant, you risk hefty fines. Make sure your web designer knows how to create content that avoids health-related advertising breaches and uses appropriate, compliant language. - Neuro-affirming language
If you’re in a health therapy area, your patient base is often unique and reguires design & language that helps them feel inclusive. Patient-centered language and design is vital, including accessibility of colours, navigation and a consideration of any unique challenges they may face. Your website should reflect neuro-affirming practices, creating an accessible, non-judgmental space for patients of all backgrounds and needs. An experienced designer will know how to frame your content accordingly and take your specific audience into consideration. - Accessibility standards
An accessible website isn’t just a best practice; it’s a necessity. With more patients booking appointments and reading health content online, your website should be easy to navigate for all users, including those with disabilities. Designers experienced in healthcare will ensure your site is accessible to everyone, enhancing usability and inclusivity. - Custom design – not a template
Many basic websites rely on templates that can look generic and don’t cater to the specific needs of a therapy practice or healthcare provider. A web design blueprint that works in the finance industry or for consumer goods clients for example, won’t translate to a therapy or medical website. A designer skilled in healthcare understands that each provider’s approach is unique and will create a site that reflects your distinct personality, specialties, and values.
Why work with a healthcare design expert?
Having designed websites for allied health and therapy practices across Australia’s major cities, including Sydney, Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth & Adelaide, Clare Walter Design specialised in healthcare brands & websites to help professionals like you reach your goals. With years of experience working with healthcare communications agencies and designing for a variety of therapy and allied health practices, I ensure every website aligns with AHPRA or MA standards, incorporates patient-centered language, and supports your unique goals.
Having a designer & developer who has a special interest in healthcare can be a huge asset to your business and ensure you’re setting yourself up for long-term success.
If you’re ready to invest in a website that does more than just look good, let’s talk about how we can create a site that meets the needs of your unique practice and attracts more patients to your care.
