Empathy in Practice: Comparing Physicians’ Self-assessment and Patient Perceptions Using the Jefferson Scales

Background Empathy in clinical practice is a pivotal tool for patient-centered care and improved outcomes. This study investigates the correlation between physicians’ self-assessed empathy and patient-perceived empathy, and explores how different factors influence these perceptions. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 40 physicians and 400 patients. Physicians were categorized according to their specialty, and empathy scores were assessed using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy. Physicians and their respective patients were given structured questionnaires to give their feedback. Results Of the 40 physicians, 47.5% were under 35 years, 42.5% were between 35–50 years, and 10% were over 50 years. Male physicians scored higher on empathy than females, but this difference had no statistical significance. Physicians aged 35–50 years rated themselves as being most empathetic, however, those over 50 years received the highest empathy scores (mean 32.05, p = 0.038) from the patients. Technical skill-oriented specialities (e.g., Dermatology, Surgery) had lower empathy scores (mean 30.8) compared to person-oriented specialties (mean 31.64). Discussion The study reveals an obvious discrepancy between self-assessment of physicians’ empathy score and patient perceptions. Older physicians received higher empathy scores, possibly due to their extensive experience and communication skills refined over the years. In contrast, younger physicians' self-ratings were higher, probably reflecting an idealized self-view. Specialties requiring more patient interaction scored higher in empathy, suggesting the realization and importance of communication skills in these departments.