Do you ever feel like your appointments with patients go by too quickly? Surveys say you’re not alone.
Many patients question the actual amount of time they spend with their doctors. Let’s look into recent research and surveys to uncover the facts.
General Overview of Time Spent
On average, primary care physicians (PCPs) spend about 18 minutes with each patient. However, other studies show a slight variation, with many physicians averaging between 13 to 16 minutes per visit. This small difference might not seem like a big deal, but it can really impact the level of care and patient satisfaction.
Breakdown by Specialty
The length of time a physician spends with a patient varies significantly by specialty. For example, cardiologists and gastroenterologists usually assign 13 to 24 minutes per patient. This longer time frame is essential for more in-depth exams and discussions, which are needed for managing complex conditions.
On the other hand, ophthalmologists typically have shorter visits, averaging 9 to 12 minutes per patient. These quick appointments usually work for routine eye exams, but they might not leave enough time for detailed consultations.
Impact of Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
One major factor influencing the time physicians spend with patients is the use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs). On average, doctors spend around 16 minutes per patient encounter on EHR tasks, which includes activities like chart review, documentation, and ordering. Spending a large amount of time on administrative tasks can take away from time with patients. Many doctors struggle daily to balance clinical care with these necessary but time-consuming duties.
Patient Perspectives on Time
From a patient’s point of view, the time spent with their doctor can really shape their healthcare experience. Longer appointments usually make patients feel more cared for and listened to. When they have enough time to talk about their symptoms and concerns, trust in their healthcare provider grows, and they’re more likely to follow treatment plans.
On the other hand, shorter visits can leave patients feeling rushed and misunderstood, leading to incomplete information sharing and dissatisfaction. Research shows that patients value meaningful conversations with their doctors, so it’s important to find a balance between being efficient and providing patient-centered care.
Conclusion
For private practice doctors, balancing administrative tasks and patient care is challenging but not impossible. On average, physicians spend about 18 minutes with each patient, yet taking extra time to listen can significantly improve healthcare outcomes.
