How far should you go to protect your online reputation?
Online reviews and star ratings are among patients' most important factors in choosing a new healthcare provider. An unfavorable review can negatively affect a provider's reputation and deter future patients. Some providers are turning to mutual privacy agreements to combat negative reviews. But are these agreements ethical or legal?
The Medscape article How Far Is Too Far to Protect Your Reputation Online? points out that these agreements vary, but generally require patients to agree not to post negative reviews as a condition for receiving care at the practice. Robert I. Field, JD, MPH, Ph.D., says that while these agreements may not be illegal, they raise ethical issues. Mr. Field points out that asking a patient to sign such an agreement says the provider does not trust the patient. The article provides more positive methods providers can use to earn patients' respect and high online scores.
Medical Mutual's practice tip Social Media Risks in Healthcare provides guidance on avoiding risk in social media.