With a constant demand of doctors around the world, patients are always seeking out the most talented and accomplished physicians. Whether at private practices or in hospitals, patient care has always been the top priority. Although this includes the manner and adeptness that the patient’s problems are dealt with, patient care also involves caring for each patient with the “special” attention that they deserve. Doctors, nurses, and other medical staff are always expected to have talented social skills and perfect patient care, since they represent the whole of the hospital/practice with their actions. For doctors, patient care is the most important aspect of their career. This does not only refer to a doctor’s ability to diagnose and treat their patients, but rather one’s ability to relate to a patient, to simply converse and engage with them. The most satisfied patients are those who are able to connect with their doctors, whether the doctor simply asked them how their day was going or chatted with them about their favorite sports team. It could also be a professionally valuable routine, as it will leave a good impression on patients who may in turn recommend you to others, and might even put you on track for future promotions and positions. Patients and hospitals value doctors who are “fun” and “easy-going” because these traits translate to patients as someone who they can open up to and hold an honest dialogue with. Patients also prioritize doctors who are accessible. Being able to meet with their physician as soon as patients call rather than having to schedule an appointment for a later date is a very favorable commodity. Doctors who always make time for their patients lets people know that the doctor truly cares, and is willing to accommodate their needs and sacrifice his/her own time for better service. Of course, these habits are useless until the doctor has one last important trait: bedside manners. The simplest of actions can translate to be the largest of meanings, and making sure the patient is comfortable and open is what the doctor is there to assure. These include small, almost insignificant habits (like asking for permission to come into the patient’s room or sitting down to eye level with the patient) that indicate a friendly body language. People tend to pick up and make assumptions about other individuals unconsciously in order to better “read” them, and reassuring the patient with positive and formal body language is a habit that they will come to appreciate. Source
