Negative Patient Reviews and Online Defamation: A Guide for the Obstetrician-Gynecologist.

ABSTRACT

Physician review websites can serve as a means for patients to address physician actions, both good and bad. At times, patient reviews may be negative and perceived as defamatory. Yet there are specific legal requirements that must be met for an online review to be considered defamatory. Prior cases indicate that pursuing a defamation lawsuit, although appropriate in some circumstances, is oftentimes a difficult and futile endeavor. To avoid litigation, physicians can take proactive approaches to address questionable reviews and to bolster their online reputations.