Assessment of laryngologists' ratings on physician review websites

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveTo assess and characterize online ratings and comments on laryngologists and determine factors that correlate with higher ratings.MethodsAll the American Laryngological Association (ALA) members were queried across several online platforms. Ratings were normalized for comparison on a five‐point Likert scale. Ratings were categorized based on context and for positive/negative aspects.ResultsOf the 331 ALA members, 256 (77%) were rated on at least one online platform. Across all platforms, the average overall rating was 4.39 ± 0.61 (range: 1.00–5.00). Specific positive ratings including “bedside manners,” “diagnostic accuracy,” “adequate time spent with patient,” “appropriate follow‐up,” and “physician timeliness” had significant positive correlations to overall ratings, by Pearson's correlation (P < 0.001). Long wait times had significant negative correlations to overall ratings (P < 0.001).ConclusionOnline ratings and comments for laryngologists are significantly influenced by patient perceptions of bedside manner, physician competence, and time spent with the patient.