Clothes May Not Make the Physician—But They Do Influence a Patient’s Perspective

Patients who get nervous around clinicians, even to the point of having a fast heart rate or elevated blood pressure, are said to be experiencing “white coat anxiety.” Don’t let that fool you. A professional image, including those white coats (and scrubs, as well) goes a long way toward helping patients feel they’re going to get excellent care, according to a new study published in BMJ Open. More than half of the 4,000+ patients who participated said what physicians wear is important to them; over one third said a doctor’s attire even influences how satisfied they are with their care. The researchers showed participants pictures of male and female physicians dressed in casual clothes (short-sleeved collared shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes) with or without a white coat; business clothes (suit pants and a dress shirt, dress shoes) with or without a white coat; scrubs; or a business suit. Then they were asked to give their impressions using terms like knowledgeable, trustworthy, caring, and approachable—plus, overall, how “comfortable” they would feel with the doctor pictured. Formal attire scored highest among 44% of the population; 26% scored doctors in scrubs with a white coat highest. Fifty-five percent said a white coat was “important” for them to see in an office setting. JUCM has covered this topic from an urgent care-specific perspective; you can read more about it in our archives.