The Role of Physician Attire in the Patient-Physician Relationship between Latino Patients and Physicians in South Bend, Indiana and Minneapolis, Minnesota

Abstract

This project investigated how the clothing of physicians influences patient trust, confidence, and satisfaction. It was be conducted at Casa de Amistad, Centro Tyrone Guzman, and Notre Dame, organizations that serve the Latino communities of Minnesota and South Bend, Indiana. Responses and data were measured using a Qualtrics survey to analyze the perspectives of patients. The Qualtrics survey was distributed through pieces of paper, social media and zoom. Researchers found that the white coat was preferred by patients in almost every situation except for surgery, and many patients responded that they would me more likely to follow the instructions of and return to the physician in the white coat. However, the white coat was identified as one of the more intimidating clothing types, so its effects on the patient have yet to be determined.