Does physician attire influence patient satisfaction in an outpatient obstetrics and gynecology setting?

Objective

The purpose of our study was to determine whether physician attire played a role in patient satisfaction after a new obstetrician/gynecologist encounter.

Study design

Over a 3-month period, 20 physicians were randomly assigned to dress in business attire, casual clothing, or scrub suit each week. One thousand one hundred sixteen patients who had an office visit with a new obstetrician/gynecologist for at least 10 minutes completed a satisfaction survey, which assessed patient comfort as well as perception of the competency and professionalism of the physician. Patients were blinded to the physician attire manipulation.

Results

There was no difference in the mean overall satisfaction score among the 3 physician attire groups. No differences existed in satisfaction scores when analyzed by individual survey item or by demographic factors, after controlling for attire.

Conclusion

Patients are equally satisfied with physicians who dress in business attire, casual clothing, or scrub suit.

Key words: patient satisfaction, physician attire, physician-patient relations