Several online doctor rating sites are popping up on the Internet. Several have ratings for local doctors.
Ratemds.com – lets you sort by name, city.
Angieslist.com – you have to register to see ratings
Checkmd.com – a newer site that doesn’t have many ratings yet.
The St. Pete Times did an article on these sites (Read more) and gave these caveats:
• Look for sites that include other information and data alongside user ratings. CheckMD.com, for example, includes any disciplinary actions or citations the doctor might have.
• Be wary of rating sites that allow anonymous postings or ratings. Those tend to include a greater percentage of negative comments. Some sites, such as Angie’s List, require you to register before posting or viewing ratings.
• Volume is important. You’re more likely to get an accurate picture by reading multiple reviews, either on one site or multiple sites.
• Don’t rely solely or too heavily on online rating sites. There are other places to get information, including the state Department of Health Web site (ww2.doh.state.fl.us/mqaservices). There, you can verify if the doctor is licensed or has disciplinary actions, or you can file a complaint.
