In the past five years more than 40 Web sites have begun reviewing physicians, providing information about one of the more difficult and important decisions consumers make routinely.
As these sites proliferate, the freewheeling anonymity of the Internet has collided with the rights of physicians who are constrained by laws that protect patient privacy.
As a defensive measure, some physicians are requiring patients to sign broad agreements that prohibit online postings or commentary in any media outlet "without prior written consent."
Critics call the documents gag orders. Many experts say they are both unethical and unenforceable.
Read the full story in the Washington Post.
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