Word of mouth and physician referrals still drive healthcare provider choice

Center for Studying Health System Change, December 4, 2008

Despite transparency initiatives and pushes for greater healthcare consumerism, most patients still rely on word of mouth and physician referrals to pick a new healthcare provider, according to a study by the Center for Studying Health System Change. A 2007 study by the Center found few American adults engaged in active shopping or considered price or quality information when choosing specialists or facilities for medical procedures.