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Patient Satisfaction
When I was a junior physio, I believed that clinical precision—asking the right questions, conducting the right tests, and prescribing the right treatment—was the key to patient recovery and satisfaction. But experience (and research) has taught me that patient expectations might play an equally critical role in outcomes.
Calner et al. (2017) found that patients with persistent pain don’t just seek relief—they seek respect, knowledge, and a clear roadmap for their care.
Subialka et al. (2022) reinforced this, showing that patients want to understand their pain, know what to expect, and feel equipped to manage their condition.
The takeaway? Before we treat, we need to align with what the patient hopes to gain. One question I like using is "what's the most important thing you want to cover or leave with today." Meeting expectations isn’t just good communication—it might just be the most powerful intervention we have.
I’m gearing up for a patient satisfaction presentation with a colleague, diving into what truly drives positive experiences.
Spoiler: It’s not just outcomes—it’s communication, clarity, and collaboration. Research supports this: patients who feel heard and respected report better outcomes, even when symptoms persist. More on this soon!
Here are
10 clinical hacks that drive patient satisfaction. This is directly from our course on
patient-centred care.
Are patient expectations an untapped clinical skill?
If patients expect a certain approach (e.g., hands-on therapy), does meeting that expectation improve results—even if the approach itself is less effective?
Let's discuss on the AMP Community Board.
👉
Jump into the conversation here
Just finished
Arthur Brooks’ From Strength to Strength—a must-read for anyone thinking about long-term career fulfillment. The book is a guide to shifting from success to significance, embracing intellectual humility, and prioritizing wisdom over pure productivity. It’s shaping how I think about professional growth. Highly recommend.
"Climbing the first curve of success is about achieving—climbing the second curve is about giving back.” From Strength to Strength - Arthur Brooks
In healthcare, this might mean shifting from treating patients to teaching others how to do the same. Early success can be about direct impact, but lasting influence comes from mentoring, sharing knowledge, and shaping the future of healthcare. Giving back through teaching ensures expertise and empathy continue long after we step away from the treatment table.
