Word-of-mouth network for consumers now listing medical doctors

What launched as a Web site for consumers to share their experiences and reviews of roofers, plumbers, and other service providers, Angie's List now includes reviews of physicians, dentists, pharmacies, and health insurers. Specialties such as orthopedics and gynecology are also included in the 55 healthcare categories.

Customers can log on to the subscription-only Web site and share reviews and rate their experiences with doctors. They can also rate everything from the cleanliness of the waiting rooms to the doctor's bedside manner. Members assign a grade, ranging from "A" to "F" for each component. Additional areas covered in the ratings:

> Was the office staff helpful and courteous?

> Did the doctor explain things in a way that you could understand?

> Do you feel you could make your concerns understood to the doctor?

Angie Hicks, Angie's List founder, said the demand for doctor ratings came from the site's members. Seventy-six percent of members polled said they wanted to rate healthcare services.

If the thought of your clients rating your veterinary practice makes you nervous, well, veterinarians and veterinary services are already on Angie's List. The good news? In 2007, the folks at Angie's List collected nearly 300,000 reports from members who graded service companies on overall experience, price quality, responsiveness, and punctuality. And guess who topped the list? Veterinarians.