Most physicians read their online reviews, survey finds

Most physicians pay attention to the online reviews patients write about them and  monitor the reviews of their competitors, according to a new survey.

Results of the first-annual Digital Doctor Survey conducted by ZocDoc showed that 85%  of physicians and other providers read their online reviews and 36% glanced at the reviews of competitors and fellow physicians as well.

Most physicians surveyed (85%) said most patient reviews were “very fair” or “fair.” Only 15% did not consider the reviews fair.

The ZocDoc survey also found that the majority of physicians surveyed use social media to promote their practice, with Facebook being the most popular platform. Other social media platforms popular with providers were Google Plus, LinkedIn, and Twitter, according to the survey.

There was an age gap in social media use, which was found to be 22% higher among physicians age 56 and younger.

The survey was conducted in July, 2013 and included the answers of 360 healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, other medical specialists, dentists, and dieticians.