How Doctor Communication Affects Cancer Patient Satisfaction
Author Information
Author(s): Zachariae R, Pedersen C G, Jensen A B, Ehrnrooth E, Rossen P B, von der Maase H
Primary Institution: Aarhus University Hospital
Hypothesis
The study investigates the influence of patient perceived physician communication style on patient satisfaction, distress, self-efficacy, and perceived control over their disease.
Conclusion
Better physician communication is linked to higher patient satisfaction and lower distress levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients who felt more in control of their disease reported higher satisfaction.
- Physician attentiveness was significantly correlated with patient satisfaction.
- Patients in palliative care reported lower satisfaction compared to those in curative treatment.
Takeaway
When doctors talk to cancer patients in a caring way, patients feel happier and less worried about their illness.
Methodology
Patients completed questionnaires before and after consultations to assess their satisfaction and emotional state.
Potential Biases
Patients may have provided socially desirable responses due to anxiety about criticizing their physicians.
Limitations
The study relied on patients' perceptions of physician communication, which may not accurately reflect actual communication behaviors.
Participant Demographics
500 patients from an oncology outpatient clinic, with a mix of genders and various disease severities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI=0.72–0.98
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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