Dr. John Spencer Ellis on How AI Is Quietly Undermining Dermatology Referral Relationships That Took Years to Build
Dr. Martinez refers patients to your dermatology practice. Has for years. Good relationship. Reliable patient flow. But lately, something's off. Patients who should be scheduling after Dr. Martinez's referral... aren't. The referral numbers look fine on paper. The conversion to actual appointments has dropped. What's happening between referral and appointment? AI verification. The Referral Verification Behavior Most Dermatologists Don't Know About Here's a pattern playing out in dermatology practices nationwide: Patient visits primary care physician. Physician says: "You should see a dermatologist about that mole. I'm referring you to Dr. Williams." Patient goes home. Before calling to schedule, they open ChatGPT. "What can you tell me about Dr. Williams dermatology?" "Is Dr. Williams a good dermatologist?" "Who's the best dermatologist for skin cancer screening in my area?" What AI says next determine...