Hard Internet Truths: 34,748 Online Reviews Reveal What Patients Really Want from Doctors.

For all of us living in the Internet age, it's hard to underestimate the power of online reviews. Before booking a reservation at a new hotel or restaurant, who doesn't consult websites such as TripAdvisor and Open Table? Who would gamble $100 on a dinner out or $200 on a hotel stay before first seeing what other diners and patrons had to say about their experiences? Patients who are looking for a healthcare provider are no different than those customers looking for a restaurant or a hotel; they want opinions from others who have previously availed themselves of that restaurant or hotel. This article addresses the importance of online reputation management and offers ideas and suggestions for healthcare providers to control and protect their online reputations.