Each year, Washingtonian Magazine compiles a list of Best Doctors, a valuable resource for individuals seeking top medical professionals in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. This guide explains how the list is created and what it means for you.
How Washingtonian Selects Its Best Doctors
The Washingtonian Best Doctors list is the result of a rigorous peer-review survey. Every spring, Washingtonian sends out an online survey to nearly 13,000 doctors across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region. These physicians are asked to recommend colleagues they trust across 39 different medical specialties. To ensure the integrity of the process, each participant must log in with a valid medical license number from the District, Maryland, or Virginia and can only submit a single ballot. Voting for oneself is not permitted. The doctors who receive the most votes in each specialty are recognized as Top Doctors. These Washingtonian Best Doctors are then featured in an online directory, identified by a special “Best Doctors” logo. While the online listings may also include sponsors, only those doctors who are designated as top vote-getters earn the prestigious award logo.
Understanding the Washingtonian Best Doctors List: FAQs
My Doctor Isn’t on the List – Should I Be Concerned?
It’s important to understand that not being included in the Washingtonian Best Doctors list doesn’t necessarily reflect negatively on your current physician. Many excellent doctors may not be widely known within large referral networks, especially those in large hospital systems or smaller practices, or those earlier in their careers. If you are happy with the care you receive from your doctor, there is no inherent reason to switch based solely on this list.
Is the Best Doctors List Simply a Popularity Contest?
While there is an element of peer recognition involved, the scale of the Washingtonian Best Doctors survey distinguishes it from a simple popularity contest. With 13,000 doctors participating, the recommendations come from a very broad professional circle. When doctors refer patients, they often recommend someone within their immediate network. This survey, however, taps into a much wider pool of professional opinions.
I Had a Bad Experience with a Doctor on the List.
The Washingtonian Best Doctors list is a starting point, highlighting doctors respected by their peers. However, it’s crucial to remember that this is still a recommendation, and individual experiences can vary. Personal comfort and trust in your doctor are paramount. If you feel uncomfortable with any doctor, regardless of their credentials or list inclusion, it is always advisable to seek another physician who better meets your needs.
Contact Us
For any questions regarding the Washingtonian Best Doctors list or to update information in a current listing, please contact [email protected] or call 202-739-2441. For inquiries about enhancing your listing with a photo, please email [email protected] or call 202-296-1246.
*Please note that the Acupuncturist category was not researched or included in the 2022 Top Doctors list by Washingtonian.
