But that said, I did get a very good specialist for my mother-in-law from Angie’s List. They can be really helpful if people stick to basic things, like demeanor, cleanliness of office, helpfulness.

Compared with other local services like restaurants, it’s harder for the customer (patient) to tell whether he received good treatment. There is less transparency and much more complexity with medical care. A doctor might get judged on bedside manner alone, rather than skills as a surgeon or other things like that.

And the outcome isn’t always indicative of the physician’s talent. I’ve heard it argued that good doctors attract more sick people, and actually have worse track records in terms of final health outcome. So if you go by that measure, it’s probably not the best way to gauge best doctors.

Sometimes good doctors get bad reviews and I can see how there might be a legitimate backlash against it. But the gag order thing is a little ridiculous.There’s gotta be a better way.