What 7 qualities make a good doctor?
That is a hard question. But here goes.
We are writing this from the patient’s perspective. A good doctor is someone who has a combination of knowledge, and technical and interpersonal skills, that allow them to provide the best possible care to their patients.
Let’s expand on that. These are MyHSN’s 7 top tips on how to judge whether your doctor is any good? Try ‘JUMPEEL’ (!):
J – judgement
U – understand local systems + determination
M – medical knowledge
P – professionalism
E – empathy + kindness
E – excellent communication skills
L – do you like them?
1. Good judgement (especially concerning your health)
Doctors should be able to make sound decisions based on the information available to them. They need to be able to know what they do not know; and be willing to seek additional input from colleagues and specialists when needed. It fine (good actually) to ‘ask a friend’.
And, as part of good judgement, they need to be a good judge of risk : benefit and be able to explain that to you. Arrogance is a very bad quality.
Good questions to ask – do they discuss you with colleagues? Do they refer you to someone else if necessary, and chase the referral if its too slow? Can they explain risk : benefit to you, in language you understand?
2. Understand local healthcare systems (especially IT) + determination
They need to know how their local healthcare systems work in detail; and use different (i.e. best and most appropriate) systems for different problems. They must be able to guide patients through systems that do not work well together – e.g. computers that do not talk to each other (this is not the patient’s fault).
Good questions – do they use their IT well? Blame the system when they struggle to use IT? It is their job to make it work for you, and not moan (too much! We all moan a bit)
Determination
It is not enough to understand the systems. You need the doctor to chase the system on your behalf, especially when it doesn’t work. Are they determined? Finish the job (FTJ)? Chase blood or other tests? Chase you? They should.
Have they gone the extra mile before?
3. Medical knowledge and clinical skills
A good doctor should have extensive knowledge and training in their field, as well as a commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest medical research and techniques. This can include technically good surgical skills if they are a surgeon. Some surgical data is available but you have to look hard. Ask to see it.
Good questions – do they know their stuff? Ask your doctor about the last conference they went to and what they learnt there? If a surgeon, what evidence do you have their operations work?
4. Professionalism
This includes being reliable, punctual, and ethical, as well as maintaining confidentiality and respecting patients’ rights. Their work environment should be clean and organised; with any equipment they need, near to hand. They should tell the truth at all times.
Good question – do you trust them? 100%? What does their clinic room look like?
5. Excellent communication skills
A good bedside manner is essential. Doctors should be able to explain medical information in a way that patients can understand (no jargon); and be able to listen to and address patient concerns and questions.
Good questions – do understand what they say? Do they listen to your answers?
Note. Listening is as important as talking and asking questions. Learn to maximise the ‘golden minute’ (first minute of history taking.
6. Empathy and kindness
Do they care? We mean, really care. Are they kind? Really?
A good doctor should be able to connect with patients on a human level, showing compassion and understanding for their needs and concerns.
Good questions – what evidence do you have they care, and are kind?
7. Do you like them? Do other people like them?
Medicine, like life, is about trust. If you don’t like your doctor and don’t get on, you will not trust them, then they cannot provide good care (and you will not accept their advice, even if it is good care). Find another doctor. Other peoples’ views are important. Ask around.
Good question – do you like them? Simples
Over a good doctor uses these 7 principles to form a strong, trusting, caring relationship with their patient, and provide them with the best possible care.
Summary
We have described what 7 qualities make a good doctor, from the patients’ perspective. We hope it has been helpful.
Other resource
Note. For any junior (sorry, resident) doctor or medical student reading, to develop all 7 skills takes years, decades actually. This is why doctors often peak aged 45-60 years. We know it’s frustrating. But enjoy the journey and enjoy it when you ‘get there’.
