Medical communication and gender: a summary of research.

Communication patterns between physicians and patients during the medical visit reveal behavioral gender differences. Studies suggest varying satisfaction levels depending on physician gender. The communication style of female physicians often includes slightly more focus on the patient's emotional and psychosocial concerns, more positively toned communications, and a more egalitarian style reflected in increased levels of patient participation. However, because patients' satisfaction with female physicians does not typically exceed that for male physicians, other factors may influence satisfaction ratings.