Health
Respect may lead to better health outcomes
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Sept. 26, 2005
Being treated with dignity was associated with a greater degree of satisfaction with health care and an increased likelihood of receiving preventive services, according to a study published in the July/August issue of Annals of Family Medicine.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 5,000 people who participated in the Commonwealth Fund's 2001 Health Care Quality Survey. Slightly more than three-quarters reported being treated with respect, and the impact was significant. For example, 78% of those treated respectfully planned to adhere to recommendations, while only 69% of those who were not treated quite as well could say the same.
The impact of varying types of respect, however, varied among racial and ethnic groups. Dignity was associated with increased adherence for racial and ethnic minorities, while being involved in decision-making was linked with compliance among Caucasian patients.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2005/09/26/hlbf0926.htm.