Reviewing the Raters: A Study of Orthopedic Oncology Rating Outcomes During COVID-19

Background During the 2020 COVID outbreak, telemedicine usage rates skyrocketed. We investigated the effect of telemedicine availability and demographic factors on orthopedic oncologist ratings and review rates. We also investigated patient-reported positive and negative experiences on www.heathgrades.com to determine which physician interaction factors were more importantly perceived by patients. Methods All orthopedic oncologists (n = 141) on www.healthgrades.com were selected for review through October 2020. Information obtained included telemedicine availability, gender, age, location of practice, review rate (number of reviews per 1000 days), mean star rating, and patient-reported positive and negative physician interactions. Mean star ratings and number of ratings were compared with respect to demographic information and telemedicine availability. Mean star ratings and review rates of orthopedic oncologists offering telemedicine were compared before and after January 01, 2020. Patients perceived positive and negative physician interaction factors were reported as a frequency of pooled positive or negative interaction factors, respectively. Results There were no significant differences in mean star rating or review rate with respect to demographic factors, telemedicine availability, or telemedicine offering orthopedic oncologists before and after January 01, 2020. There were increased positive interactions of both physician independent and dependent factors and increased negative interactions of time dependent factors. Conclusion Patients reported an increased frequency of negatively perceived wait times and rushed appointments. Telemedicine availability has been previously cited as a cost-effective means of reducing wait times. Prospective investigations are needed to determine if telemedicine can be utilized as a cost-effective means of improving patient care and satisfaction.