Analysis of Online Urologist Ratings: Are Rating Differences Associated With Subspecialty?

Abstract

Patients are increasingly using online rating websites to obtain information about physicians and to provide feedback. We performed an analysis of urologist online ratings, with specific focus on the relationship between overall rating and urologist subspecialty. We conducted an analysis of urologist ratings on Healthgrades.com . Ratings were sampled across 4 US geographical regions, with focus across 3 practice types (large and small private practice, academic) and 7 urologic subspecialties. Statistical analysis was performed to assess for differences among subgroup ratings. Data were analyzed for 954 urologists with a mean age of 53 (±10) years. The median overall urologist rating was 4.0 [3.4-4.7]. Providers in an academic practice type or robotics/oncology subspecialty had statistically significantly higher ratings when compared to other practice settings or subspecialties ( P < 0.001). All other comparisons between practice types, specialties, regions, and sexes failed to demonstrate statistically significant differences. In our study of online urologist ratings, robotics/oncology subspecialty and academic practice setting were associated with higher overall ratings. Further study is needed to assess reasons underlying this difference.

Influence of Age, Sex, and Wait Times on Public Online Ratings of Glaucoma Physicians in the United States

“…23 In contrast to the subspecialty of glaucoma, oculoplastics surgery covers a broader patient population age range and with greater elective surgery options such as oculoplastics surgery, dermatology, urology, and otolaryngologists, sex has never been found to be a significant factor on online ratings. 7,14,26,27 In contrast to glaucoma patients, oculoplastics cover a broader population pool that includes more elective and cosmetic concerns that can reduce the overall patient population age. 28 This may account for younger portions of the oculoplastics patient population and lend to less biased online ratings.…”

“…Female physicians only represented 6% of the workforce in the United States in 1950 and, as a result, the older generation may tend to be more biased against female physicians as reflected in their unfavorable online ratings 23 . In contrast to the subspecialty of glaucoma, oculoplastics surgery covers a broader patient population age range and with greater elective surgery options such as oculoplastics surgery, dermatology, urology, and otolaryngologists, sex has never been found to be a significant factor on online ratings 7,14,26,27 . In contrast to glaucoma patients, oculoplastics cover a broader population pool that includes more elective and cosmetic concerns that can reduce the overall patient population age 28 .…”