Investigating Patient Preferences in Medical Student Attire in the Outpatient Otolaryngology Setting.

BACKGROUND

The authors sought to investigate patient preferences on physician and medical student attire in the outpatient otolaryngology setting.

METHODS

A prospective sample of 50 (23 males, 27 females) patients presenting to an otolaryngology clinic in a North American teaching hospital, Boston, MA, were included. Patients were seen by a researcher wearing a white coat and either (1) a shirt and tie or (2) surgical scrubs, then completed a Likert-style survey evaluating feelings of trust, comfort, and professionalism. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05.

RESULTS

Most patients (82%, 41/50) believed that attire was important. Men and older patients were significantly more likely to believe attire was important ( = .01 and .005, respectively). Patients were significantly more comfortable when seen by a provider wearing a shirt and tie compared to scrubs ( = 109.5, = .021); however, there was no difference in feelings of trust or professionalism ( = .5* and .6*, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Physician attire is important for patients presenting to otolaryngology clinic. Patients favored a white coat with a shirt and tie. Level of Evidence: NA.