Evaluating Physician-Patient Communication: Comparing Observer Ratings and Frequency-Based Measures

Effective physician-patient communication is crucial for improving patient outcomes and satisfaction. However, assessing communication quality remains challenging due to the variety of available evaluation techniques. The research sought to contrast various methods to the measurement of physician-patient communication, including salient elements like patient participation, physician information transmission, emotional content, non-verbal communication, and rapport. 110 physician-patient consultations were analyzed utilizing two contrasting methods, such as frequency measures, to capture verbal and non-verbal action and professional observer standardized rater ratings. To compare these, high-level statistical processes, e.g., regression analysis and Spearman's rank correlation, were used to cross-match the data obtained. The results revealed low to moderate correlations between self-reports of communication by patients and physicians, which were not statistically significant. However, stronger and statistically significant correlations were observed between observer ratings and frequency-based measures. These results indicate that although each measurement method measures different dimensions of communication, the methods are complementary, and are informative about the dynamics of communication between physicians and patients. The research also indicates the significance of rapport-building and non-verbal communication in effective communication. Frequency-based metrics were also identified as effective in assessing real-time communication dynamics, highlighting the benefits of employing various measurement methods for a more thorough evaluation of communication quality.