Career and Life Planning Guidebook for Medical Residents

6. RESPECTFUL Patients want a physician who treats them like an individual and not just another medical problem or lab experiment in their office. Patients want their medical conditions to be explained in simple language so that they’re not made to feel inferior or bogged down with medical jargon. 7. KNOWLEDGEABLE Many doctors believe that their credentials are of highest importance to their patients. In actuality, a doctor’s credentials are more important among their colleagues than their patients. What a patient values above credentials is knowledge. If a patient is going to see a surgeon for the first time, the last thing a patient is worried about is what Ivy League medical school the doctor attended. A patient is more concerned about how many successful surgeries the physician has accomplished and wants to confirm that the surgeon can safely meet their needs. Patients also want a physician who isn’t afraid to admit when they don’t know something and will either research it or refer the patient to a more qualified doctor. 8. THOROUGH One mistake in the medical field could have devastating effects. A patient wants to know that their doctor hasn’t overlooked an aspect of their healthcare. Thoroughness and attention to detail will instill confidence in a patient that the physician’s diagnosis is accurate. This trait also helps the physician to schedule the appropriate follow-ups or necessary extended care. Being thorough the first time can prevent the patient from future ailments or the discomfort of having to come back for additional visits. Evaluating Body Language and Non-Verbal Communication Candidates may provide excellent answers to interview questions, but if their nonverbal communication isn’t up to par, it won’t matter how well you answer the questions. This includes your body language and what is known as “paralanguage” – the elements of your speech besides the words, such as your intonation, speaking speed, pauses and sighs, and facial expressions. Nonverbal communication also in- cludes your attire and grooming. (5) Patients want a physician who treats them like an individual and not just another medical problem or lab experiment in their office. SECTION II: T MINUS TWO YEARS CAREER AND LIFE PLANNING GUIDEBOOK FOR MEDICAL RESIDENTS 248