The Article in Brief

Background Are patients more likely to trust a doctor they view as similar to themselves? This study looks at patients' perceptions of concordance (similarity or shared identity) with their doctor based on race and sex. It also looks at whether views of similarity are connected to the patient-doctor relationship and quality of care, including patient participation in the medical visit, trust in the doctor, satisfaction with care, and intent to follow the doctor's advice. The study also tests a new tool to measure perceived similarity based on shared identity.

What This Study Found Patients who believe they are more similar to their doctor in terms of personal beliefs, values, and ways of communicating have more trust in the doctor, more satisfaction with care, and a stronger intention to follow the doctor's recommendations. Patients' perceptions of being similar to the doctor in terms of race and ethnicity are not related to these factors.

Implications

• The patient-doctor relationship is strengthened when patients see themselves as similar to their doctors in terms of personal beliefs, values, and communication.
• Regardless of issues of race and sex, a doctor who is skilled in providing information, showing respect, and supporting patient involvement can establish a connection with the patient that contributes to greater patient satisfaction, trust, and commitment to treatment.
• Future research should examine how similarities and differences in values, beliefs, and behaviors affect the quality of patient-doctor relationships.