Matt T Bianchi1. 1. Partners Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Neurology Clinic, Wang Ambulatory Center 8th Floor, Boston, MA, USA. mtbianchi@partners.org
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Physician-patient interactions are complex and depend on multiple factors including common cultural definitions and evolving social norms. The once purely philosophical debate over what constitutes appropriate physician attire can benefit from a growing evidence base in the literature. DISCUSSION: Although this literature is commonly regarded as supporting traditional attire, the data actually represent a more balanced distribution of opinions held by patients and by physicians. Perhaps interpretations favoring a conservative approach are expected given the history and tradition of the physician-patient relationship. CONCLUSION: Nevertheless, in the age of evidence-based medicine, it is difficult to argue against scrutiny of the available literature. Evidence that challenges the importance of traditional physician attire is reviewed.
INTRODUCTION: Physician-patient interactions are complex and depend on multiple factors including common cultural definitions and evolving social norms. The once purely philosophical debate over what constitutes appropriate physician attire can benefit from a growing evidence base in the literature. DISCUSSION: Although this literature is commonly regarded as supporting traditional attire, the data actually represent a more balanced distribution of opinions held by patients and by physicians. Perhaps interpretations favoring a conservative approach are expected given the history and tradition of the physician-patient relationship. CONCLUSION: Nevertheless, in the age of evidence-based medicine, it is difficult to argue against scrutiny of the available literature. Evidence that challenges the importance of traditional physician attire is reviewed.
Authors: Hassan M Alzahrani; Ahmed A Mahfouz; Shehata Farag; Nabil J Awadalla; Ahlam Abu Melha; Mohammed Almobarak; Makki H Meri; Othman M Omair; Afnan S Alqarni; Fatma M Alqahtani Journal: J Family Med Prim Care Date: 2020-06-30
Authors: Christopher Michael Petrilli; Megan Mack; Jennifer Janowitz Petrilli; Andy Hickner; Sanjay Saint; Vineet Chopra Journal: BMJ Open Date: 2015-01-19 Impact factor: 2.692