subject: Types Of Doctor Sites [print this page] With so much information available to the average consumer these days, it can be a chore to wade through it all. Knowing where to turn when researching new physicians is no exception. In recent years a number of online doctor ratings sites have come to light, providing patients with the opportunity to view and share experiences with others. And while these sites can definitely prove themselves valuable resources throughout the research process, it is important to know which sites are available, and what they provide. In this article, we will outline the different aspects of the physician ranking sites available online.
Physician Directories
These are sites which are constructed with the intent of listing the basic facts of physicians. They provide information pertaining to the education, location, experience, and complaint histories. While you will not usually find in depth details regarding malpractice, or past patient opinions, it is a good place to start out.
Board Certification Sites
These sites, including the American Osteopathic Association, and the American Board of Medical Specialties, among others, will provide more in depth information regarding the education and training a physician has. This will help you in evaluating the physician's capabilities as to whether or not they might be of any service to your specific situation.
Ratings & Rankings Sites
These types of sites use algorithms in order to provide prospective patients with information to help in determining competency. They may use patient opinions, or additional rankings. Depending on the specific of the site, some can be seen as quite helpful, and others a waste of time. Use your best judgment when viewing these resources, and be sure to treat opinions as such. While they may be helpful, they are still based off of someone else's experience.
Personal Websites
This is a great resource in finding contact information, office hours, locations, specialities, and other information, helpful in making a decision concerning a physician. While much of the information is generally promotional, they are yet another piece in the puzzle worth looking into when researching a physician. Treat this as an introduction to the physician, and obtain as much quality information as possible.
Licensing And Experience Sites
Found mostly on insurance department or state health sites, these resources provide information pertaining to licensing information. You will be able to find out whether a physician is currently practicing within the area in which they are licensed in addition to information regarding disciplinary actions. Some states tend to update this information more often than others, while others rely of the physicians themselves to keep an updated record.
Blogs
This is a great tool in determining whether a physician is truly invested in the patients they treat. Blogs allow physicians to directly interact with patients and provide onlookers with a view into who the doctor handles themselves.
Conclusion
While the internet can be a useful tool, it requires a critical mindset and a person with the ability to think for themselves to truly make it effective. Use these resources as a guide with which to eventually formulate your own opinion based on personal experience.
