Keywords
Physical Appearance
Mannerism
Doctor-patient relationship
Malaysia
How to Cite
Abstract
Background: A strong doctor–patient relationship is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to determine the community’s perception toward doctors’ physical appearance, mannerisms, and association with the doctor-patient relationship in Malaysia.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among the general adult population in Malaysia. Data was collected via an online survey and analyzed using SPSS version 27.
Results: A total of 389 respondents participated in this study. Over half (55.53%) considered professional attire with a white coat is important, and 90.75% preferred doctors to wear name tags. The respondents paid more attention to mannerisms if they were younger age group (18-30 years) rather than the older age group (50 years and above) (Adjusted OR = 4.64, 95%CI: 1.90, 11.36). While the respondents with higher education levels (Postgraduate) were more attentive to mannerisms compared to respondents with SPM – Secondary Education level (Adjusted OR = 6.77, 95%CI: 1.26, 36.53).
Conclusion: The respondents demonstrated increased trust, confidence, and approachability and were more willing to share personal information with doctors dressed in formal attire with a white coat along with name tags. Most respondents felt that both the physical appearance and mannerisms of doctors played a significant role to form a good doctor-patient relationship. Mannerism was considered more important for the doctor-patient relationship among younger aged and higher educated people.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright (c) 2025 Delisha Kaur Boparai, Keeran Ramesh, Ama Thathsarani Rajapura, Dushan Uvindu Gunawardana, Thin Mon Kyaw, Htoo Htoo Kyaw Soe, Soe Moe, Nivedita Nadarajah, Mila Nu Nu Htay (Author)