The contract is like a doctor's goal or mission statement, and the more it reflects patients' desires, the more appealing it is to consumers, or potential patients, he said, adding it can be included in a doctor's business brochure or web site. Surveys show that in addition to clinical excellence, patients want a caring attitude from their doctor, not to feel rushed during doctor visits, the timely communication of test results, clear explanations and instructions, their questions answered and delays explained, Dr. Pierrot said Surveys also show patients want their hospital rooms to be homelike, spacious and quiet with good food, ready nurse access and the ability for the patient to control lighting and temperature, he said. Satisfying patients depends on good communication, Dr. Pierrot stressed. Doctors should strive for clear and empathetic verbal and nonverbal communication that doesn't patronize or minimize patients, he said. Doctors who patients consider good communicators have an easier time getting new patients and get more referrals, he said.
Studies also show they're less at risk for malpractice suits.
If you want to get some leverage from your marketplace be the doctor of choice, be the best communicator. It's a powerful position. Dr. Pierrot also advocates using patient satisfaction questionnaires to regularly judge how a medical practice is doing. The symposium, which also covered such topics as medical malpractice and managed care, was supported by an unrestricted educational grant from AstraZeneca.