Found this WSJ article via Slashdot. Some disgruntled patients unhappy with the service they received from doctors are going online to complain and even start websites. First amendment free speech rights come into play, of course, but so does defamation. Where do we draw the line? Is this not the same as complaining to a few friends? Or is it on par with publishing an ad in the newspaper or on TV? I don’t remember all the laws about defamation (took that final last semester), but I’d say the patients are treading on thin ice, especially if they’re exaggerating. Plus, how can we be sure the patient isn’t posting plain fabrications?

On other hand, people have a right to know. If the truth hurts, too bad. Perhaps it will encourage higher quality care. It could also drive up insurance costs and scare doctors away.

Ahh, the internet: so great in so many ways, but also a huge pain the ass.