What expectations do our patients have? Survey of patients from the public and private sectors of the province of Buenos Aires

Abstract

In the medical field, it is essential to acknowledge the importance of the doctor-patient relationship, which is a critical factor for success in health care. Therefore, the essential question arises as to what expectations patients have of their doctors and what qualities they consider essential for excellent medical practice. This survey aimed at learning what patients' expectations are for their cardiologist doctors and thus be able to provide reflective tools to the medical community about the daily care of our patients. Survey results indicate that patients wish for a doctor who possesses qualities such as empathy, constantly updated, outstanding educational skills, and the ability to effectively communicate complex medical terms in understandable language. Additionally, they expect the duration of the medical consultation to be at least 20 minutes, during which they want to be listened to carefully and undergo a thorough physical examination, as they consider this essential for an accurate evaluation. However, patients are open to carrying out auxiliary studies recommended by the health care professional. In short, patients wish for medical care that is infused with medical humanism.