A recent survey shows that 84% of patients consult online reviews when evaluating doctors, and 77% use them as their first step in choosing a new physician. With such strong reliance on digital platforms, online reviews can significantly affect a doctor’s reputation and ability to attract new patients. This article outlines practical strategies for responding to online reviews, especially negative ones. Why Patient Reviews Matter Online Reviews: The New Gateway to Care: In a survey of 1,435 patients, the majority reported using online reviews when searching for a new doctor.

About 59% said they use them “often,” while roughly one-quarter reported using them “rarely.” For many patients, these reviews serve as their first impression of a medical provider. The Personal-Professional Connection: For doctors, reputation is closely tied to both personal and professional identity. This makes it…