A highly popular and respected – and we hope heeded – authority agrees with us that consumers using the Internet to find a doctor is a trend “moving full speed ahead” and that doctors need to get on board.

The blogger says the real issue with online rating sites is what they can do for, or against, you. Angie’s List believes online ratings sites that have a credible accountability component -- and don’t just offer anonymous, Internet graffiti -- are hugely beneficial in helping patients find good doctors and helping physicians understand what their patients appreciate or find lacking in their practice. Active participation in these sites just makes a good thing better.

While a lot of us are still somewhat governed by our health insurance coverage, there’s still plenty of choice whether you need a dentist, dermatologist, psychiatrist or any other type of health professional.