More than 85 percent of physicians actively monitor online reviews from patients, and 36 percent keep tabs on competitors' reviews, according to a survey conducted by ZocDoc.
The majority of physicians see online reviews as more or less accurate, as 23 percent of respondents view their online reviews as very fair, 62 percent view them as fair and just 15 percent view them as unfair.
"Patients are eager to access the healthcare system in the same way they engage with their favorite consumer brands, research hotels, or even book restaurants and flights, and it's important for any physician practicing in today's day and age to embrace this shift," Keri Peterson, MD, an internal medicine specialist, said in the report.
"As people continue to depend on these reviews to make informed healthcare choices, it will become increasingly important for patients and doctors alike to know which systems close the loop and verify all of these reviews to ensure that they are trustworthy," she said.
The survey results are based on responses from 360 physicians collected in July 2013.
More Articles on Online Reviews:
Mount Sinai Gets Real-Time Patient Feedback to Meet Real-Time Needs
Supporting ACO Success with Meaningful Patient Engagement
Using Yelp to Attract Patients: 5 Best Practices