SPOTLIGHT: Hospital comparison Web sites examined

In the light of the Information Therapy movement, the New York Times examines ways in which consumers are using the Web to research doctors and pick hospitals. The paper examines the growing success of insurer Web sites which specialize in providing information to their customers. Although many patients appear to be happy with the new emphasis on openness, problems areas still remain. Critics who argue that not enough detailed information is available on individual doctors and hospital quality performance are quoted.  Story