Adults across the world are often scared or distrustful of doctors. Sometimes this fear is rooted in adverse experiences from a person’s past, and other times, it is completely irrational. The only known cure for this phobia is to have a good experience with a good doctor. So what makes a good doctor?
A Good Bedside Manner
Doctors are logical by nature. They visit multiple patients within the hour and may see hundreds a day. No matter how busy, a good doctor will take the time to exhibit good manners and build a personal relationship with his or her patient. Doctors should not focus on technical proficiency at the expense of making their patients feel comfortable.
Good Ears
Patients want to know that their doctor will take their concerns seriously. A good doctor will not interrupt a patient or shuffle a patient out when their time limit is looming. One strategy to ensure that the patient feels heard is the confirm the information they have presented to you, and ask if there’s anything they want to add.
Knowledge and Confidence
A good physician will have both the knowledge needed to perform and the willingness to learn new things. In the room, the doctor should exude a confidence that is contagious to patients. A doctor’s reassuring expression should say, “I can find a solution.” An anxious patient is only going to feel more anxious when the doctor seems nervous or uncertain.
Humility
While remaining knowledgeable a good doctor should not be so confident as to become arrogant. A true professional can admit when he or she is wrong and reassess.This also means referring a patient to a specialist rather than attempting to present expertise in areas outside of his or her scope..
Hard Work and Professionalism
Some doctors will call a patient with results no matter the time of day. They may work twelve hours in an office then head to the hospital to do rounds. These doctors dedicate their lives to the job, all while maintaining their professional demeanor. In short, their patients come first.
Plain Language
Doctors of the past were quick to flaunt their coveted Latin skills, but modern doctors realize that most patients aren’t skilled in medical jargon. An ideal doctor will repeat back your concerns to ensure you are understood and then make sure you can repeat back instructions regarding your health. They will also explain what technical terminology means, rather than leaving patients to the guidance of google. Patients are sometimes frustrated when asked why they are visiting multiple times, but in truth, this is the best practice to ensure the patient is heard and thoroughly evaluated.
The medical field is full of diverse individuals, but quality physicians will have these traits in common.
