Do you find that most physicians do not have a good bedside manner?

1. 72

   brakel2posted 12 years ago

   Do you find that most physicians do not have a good bedside manner?

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2. 0

   Phoebe Pikeposted 12 years ago

   It depends on who they are. Some of them I find are very curt and abrupt and don't really seem to care how you feel. Others are sweet and good doctors. I find that many of the doctors are over worked and can't be bothered to ask simple questions because they literally have no time.

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3. 90

   JayeWisdomposted 12 years ago

   Physicians are just like individuals in other professions or occupations, especially those that are overworked. In the current healthcare climate in the U.S., there aren't enough general practitioners, or family doctors. My own primary care physician is a very caring women who has been treating me since 2006. She's thorough and a good doctor, but usually looks tired no matter what time of the day my appointment is scheduled. If I want to ask her questions or be certain I tell her something, I take notes with me and check them off because I know her time is limited. She never gives me short shrift though, answering anything I ask her.
   
   I also regularly see three specialists for specific health issues, and two of them are wonderful. If "bedside manner" is the correct term for their manner during my appointment, they would both be graded A+.  The third simply has a negative personality, but because I'm unable to find anyone else with her specialty who is accepting new patients, I simply accept her. I really don't like her (and I don't think she likes me or anyone else--ha!), but I do respect her medical knowledge.
   
   As Pheobe mentioned, it depends on the doctor.....

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4. 82

   Lwelchposted 12 years ago

   I have found that it really depends on the age and if they are a specialist.  Younger doctors seem to have better bedside manner.  I have wondered if it is being stressed as part of their training.  I have had more problems with specialists - make that highly trained specialists.  My allergist, OBGYN, GP not a problem.  The neurologists I have seen have yet to impress me.  Headache specialist was awful.  It took 2 tries to find a good pulmonologist.  The great news is that there are good doctors out there.  If you hate your first attempt ask for another one.  My second pulmonologist was amazing.
   
   Another note... when I was in the hospital I was impressed by every single doc that was caring for me.
   
   Also, if you have a minor complaint, try a nurse practioner.  I have yet to have a bad one.

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5. 0

   Old Empresarioposted 12 years ago

   Yes, I find that they do

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6. 71

   Angelladywriterposted 12 years ago

   I really think most physicians are doing the best they can based on being overwhelmed with the increase of viruses, cancer and numerous other diseases. Although that still should not be an excuse for mistreatment or disrespect by the doctor. We are living in critical times and a lack of professionalism, in any field should be avoided.

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7. 61

   brianc2kposted 12 years ago

   Most that I have come in contact with have good manner.  Those that don't I roll up my sleeves and start asking questions.  I feel it should be a two way street for the physician to provide information and the patient to be able to ask questions.
   
   For those physicians who have personality problems, feel they don't have time beyond their initial comments or are just that unprofessional I force them to respond. On one occasion the doctor told me if I wanted more details I should go to medical school.  I told him that the hospital administrator would be happy to find me a professional who took time to answer questions. 
   
   Granted all comments need to be made in the highest level of respect.  But if I run into a physician that does not give me professional respect then I will be the first to challenge him.  As far as the time factor - I realize their time is in demand due to people's health.  But my time in terms of my family support should be equally important.

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8. 71

   Alastar Packerposted 12 years ago

   Some have too good a bedside manner. The one I've been seeing for the last 15 years jabbers on for 30 to 45 minutes with each and every person regardless. That can make for a long day when there are 5 or 6 ahead of you. But, there must be something his patients like cause we keep going back!

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9. 59

   Dubuquedogtrainerposted 12 years ago

   Many do not, but some do. It really is a matter of their own individual level of professionalism and skill with people. Since many of them have only spent their young lives in school and have not been out in the world much or had to learn to get along with people, and since many are in it for the money and status, this affects the way they interact with people. However, as someone already noted, physicians are individuals and as in every profession, there are those who are more professional and compassionate than others.

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