bedside manner

noun

Meaning

The way a doctor or healthcare professional interacts with a patient, specifically regarding their ability to provide comfort, empathy, and clear communication.

Examples

  • Medical schools now place a much higher emphasis on teaching students how to develop a compassionate bedside manner.
  • She is a highly skilled physician, but her poor bedside manner often leaves patients feeling like just another number.

Synonyms: empathy, rapport, compassion, professionalism