Bedside manner matters most in doctor choice

American Board of Medical Specialties, August 14, 2008

When it comes to choosing a doctor, most Americans rank bedside manner and communications skills at the top of the list of qualities important to them, according to a survey commissioned by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Ninety-five percent of respondents ranked communications skills and bedside manner as important, and when asked to select the "most important" physician attribute, 34% named bedside manner and communication skills.