Analysis of “Local Guide” Google Reviews for Orthopaedic Spine Surgeons

This study aimed to investigate the content and trends of online reviews of orthopaedic spine surgeons in Florida, as left by “Local Guide” reviewers on Google Maps. The data collected were categorized and analyzed to identify patterns related to physician age, academic status, gender, practice location, and the nature of comments left by reviewers. The results showed that higher ratings were associated with comments related to shorter wait times, a competent medical staff , the physician’s knowledge, and pain improvement. On the other hand, lower ratings were associated with comments related to expense of visit, poor bedside manner, worsening of pain, perceived lack of care, and unprofessional staff . This study provides unique insights into the factors that influence patients when selecting a physician online, as well as the areas that physicians can focus on to improve their online image or care delivery. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 34(1):037-040, 2025)

Key words: orthopaedic spine surgeons, online physician reviews, local guides, online ratings, Google reviews