Secret shoppers evaluate the services provided by stores, restaurants, banks, florists, and all kinds of service providers, including government agencies. But should doctors be immune to check-ups by undercover patients?
Medical mystery shopping is not new, but the American Medical Association (AMA) recently took up the issue at their annual meeting. The AMA’s Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs recommended that members officially endorse the use of secret shopper “patients” as a way of evaluating and improving patient care. The issue was voted on during the annual meeting earlier this month.
Many doctors object to the practice, saying that “fake” patients can interfere with access to care for those who are truly ill. However, there are doctors who see the benefits of using mystery shoppers to evaluate medical services. Continue Reading