Question
What is a HotDoc Widget and how can I install one on my practice's website?
Solution
Widgets are applications that you can install on your website that allow your patients to:
- Browse your bookable doctors
- Book appointments
- Manage their appointments
Generating the code for your widget is a quick and simple process that can be done through the HotDoc Dashboard.
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In this article |
How to install a HotDoc widget
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Log in to your Dashboard and select Bookings > Widgets from the menu on the left.
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The Widgets section of the Dashboard gives you a short overview of the two options for your website, a Lightbox or a Frame, as well as showing live demos of both so that you can choose which option suits you best:
Option 1: Lightbox
This option will show as a button (see below) and once clicked, a box will appear where patients will be able to select appointments without leaving your website:
Option 2: Frame
This option will embed a list of the doctors that can be booked right into your website:
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Once you've decided on the type of widget you'd like, head to How to install and select your widget type.
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Select whether the widget should show all practitioners or one practitioner.
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If you want your practitioners to all be bookable from the same page on your website (such as on your website homepage), you can select All practitioners.
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Alternatively, your website may have individual pages for each practitioner. In this case, you can create personalised widgets for each of them by selecting One practitioner and choosing their name. You can repeat this process as many times as needed for each of your practitioners.
ⓘ Tip -
If you want your practitioners to all be bookable from the same page on your website (such as on your website homepage), you can select All practitioners.
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If you have selected Lightbox as your widget type, you can customise its appearance and preview how it will appear.
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Once all options are chosen, a code snippet will be generated. Copy the code and paste it into your website wherever you want the widget to appear.
Only attempt this if you’re confident working in your website’s backend. If you’re unsure or run into any issues, it’s best to contact your web developer for assistance with this step.
If your practice is going through our installation process, we recommend copying your Onboarding Manager into this email so they can assist with any questions.ⓘ Important information
FAQs
Which widget style should I choose: Lightbox or Frame?
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You have two options, depending on how you want bookings to appear on your website:
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Lightbox
Best if you want a “Book Now” button that can be used across multiple pages. When clicked, it opens the booking experience in a pop-up, so patients don’t leave your site.
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Frame
Best if you want booking embedded directly into a single page (e.g. a dedicated “Book an Appointment” page), where patients can see availability straight away.
Can I see an example of each one?
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Yes, please click the links below:
Do I need technical experience to install the widget?
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Not necessarily – for many websites, it’s a simple copy-and-paste of a code snippet.
However, you will need access to your website’s backend or editor.
| If you’re not familiar with making changes to your site, it’s best to ask your web developer to assist. |
What should I try if the widget isn’t appearing on my website?
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If the widget doesn’t show after adding the code, try the following:
- Replace the widget code with simple text (e.g. “Hello”) to confirm your website is accepting changes
- Check that your website allows scripts and iframes (some platforms restrict these)
- Make sure the code has been pasted into the correct section of your website (e.g. HTML block, not visual editor)
- Clear your browser cache or try viewing the page in an incognito window
| If it’s still not appearing, it’s likely related to how your website is set up. In that case, or if you’re unsure about any of the steps above, we recommend contacting your web developer for assistance. |
Can I add the widget to multiple pages?
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Yes – you can add the widget code to as many pages as you'd like.
Common placements include:
- The homepage
- A dedicated “Book an Appointment” page
- Individual practitioner pages