Medical Staff

MDs’ attire affects patients’ impressions

Hospitalist Leadership Connection, December 6, 2006

A perspective in the November 20 New York Times addresses the issue of young physicians who report for work dressed in racy or unprofessional attire, and asserts that a physician's appearance affects patients' confidence levels.

Pamela A. Rowland, a behavioral scientist and director of professional development at Dartmouth Medical School, studies the effects of physician attire on patient confidence. She states in the perspective, "Patients don't have your [resume] in front of them, and appearance is all they have to go by. . . If you don't meet their expectations, their anxiety level increases."

There are also hygiene issues to consider. For example, the perspective asserts, "open-toed shoes don't protect against the spills that commonly occur in patient care, and long, flowing hair can potentially carry harmful bacteria."

To access the full perspective (subscription required), click here.

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