Professional attire is essential for doctors. Walking in casual clothes and not being recognizable you’re your clothes is not a good look. Clothing can make or break a person’s persona. How you appear and present yourself to the world is important for perception. Research published in BMJ Open conveyed that patients care about what their doctors wear, and their satisfaction depends on it. When they were asked to rate doctors based on their attire from some pictures, a formal dress with a white coat scored the highest, and it was especially popular with people over age 65. This was followed by scrubs with a white coat and formal attire without a white coat. They preferred that doctors wear formal attire in an office setting and a white coat during emergencies.
Some researchers have said that wearing proper attire improves work efficiency, ultimately increasing patient safety. Just like cartoon caps and badges attract children and make them comfortable in pediatric wards. Along with patient satisfaction, attire also works to increase approachability.
Doctors can wear different kinds of attire depending upon the environment they are in:
The dress code also depends upon the hospital rules you work at. But, it should always be remembered that appearances matter. A suitable attire can enhance your confidence and make you appear intelligent and professional. Apart from this, one should ensure they are comfortable wearing what they wear. If hospitals don’t have a dress code, they should establish one according to patients’ preferences. A welcoming and professional environment should be the strategy.