Parallel Perspectives of Patients and Doctors on Traits of a Good Doctor: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background In the context of growing emphasis on patient-centered care and professionalism, identifying what traits are considered important in a 'good doctor' is a bioethical imperative. This study explores how patients and physicians perceive these traits and the extent of their alignment. Methods A cross-sectional study involving 339 patients and 70 physicians (28 consultants and 42 residents) was conducted using structured questionnaires at a tertiary care hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan. Participants selected the top three traits they believed defined a good doctor. Results Results revealed that both patients and doctors ranked "listening to the patient attentively and patiently" as the most important trait. However, patients prioritized humanistic qualities such as respect, encouragement, and hope, particularly those with lower formal education, who also valued confidentiality and an informal approach. In contrast, more patients that were educated emphasized professional traits like staying updated with medical advancements and clear explanations of diseases and treatments. Doctors, especially consultants, valued professional expertise, including explaining medical conditions and staying current with new developments, while residents emphasized a mix of humanistic and professional traits, including confidentiality and teaching ability. Conclusion Patients and doctors share some expectations but differ significantly in prioritizing humanistic versus professional traits. Recognizing and addressing these gaps is crucial for culturally competent and ethically sound care.