Internet Reviews: The Google Problem and How to Choose a Doctor

A Lie Will Travel Around The World While The Truth Is Still Lacing Its Boots. Do you check Google Reviews before choosing a product or service? How accurate are the opinions of others? Are you willing to let strangers choose your doctor for you? These are questions to ask yourself. We all know that the internet is full of misinformation. Your health and well being shouldn’t be influenced by it. Google’s review policy actually allows anyone to post an inaccurate review, but limits our ability to set the record straight. Medical practitioners are especially vulnerable to the one-sidedness of Google’s algorithms. Luckily, reviews need only play a minor part in finding the right doctor. The tools you need are online AND in the real world, just not in Google Reviews.

We’ve said it before and it’s worth repeating; a good choice begins with research. Every board certified doctor has had to meet rigorous standards. Most will post information about their education proudly on their websites. It’s also possible to check those qualifications (if you really want to go that far!) with the appropriate certifying board. Dr. Sackman graduated with honors from Washington University in St. Louis and attended medical school at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine (a member-school of The NY Institute of Technology). After achieving his medical degree he worked first as a trauma surgeon, then as a general practitioner, and an Emergency Room Physician. Along the way he became licensed in 5 states. He completed a highly demanding residency in E.N.T. and Facial Plastic Surgery in 1990 and was accepted into The American Osteopathic Board of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, with certifications on both Facial Plastic Surgery and in General Otolaryngology.

Starting out solo, he realized early on that he would commit to staying in private practice. It was the only way to ensure that his perfectionist standards would be applied to every single patient. He easily was granted credentials at every hospital to which he applied, and maintained those privileges until he recently decided that the growing demands of burgeoning hospital networks was taking time away from patient care. By that time most of his surgeries were performed in his office surgical-suite anyway, so he resigned from the hospitals to be sure that his focus was on his patients—not the computer. This kind of dedication to patient care, putting you first, may be the most important way to judge a doctor.

The next step in assessing a surgeon is during the initial consultation. Look around. There should be degrees and credentials displayed in public locations. They should have continued to stay up-to-date with continuing education certifications and training in new technology. The office should contain educational materials for you to read. It’s okay to ask for before and after photos of the surgeon’s work. And use your common sense: Is this person providing an honest opinion, or just trying to sell you something? All good surgeons need self-assurance and nerves of steel, besides skill and training. Do they display confidence, examine you skillfully, ask about your goals and expectations in order to personalize your care? A preliminary exam is the only way for them to find out what is best for you.

A good doctor isn’t likely to be voted “Miss Popularity” because a good doctor needs to be honest and straight-forward. It’s often hard to hear the truth, but when it comes to your health, your safety and your cosmetic treatments, it’s what you want. It’s okay to check online reviews, but read them with a grain of salt. Base your assessment on valid criteria and your own judgement. You’re worth it.