Patients' fears, worries, and concerns when visiting an out-patient clinic

In an out-patient clinic for specialised medical care, 30 patients were questioned about their worries prior to the visit. The purpose of the study was to obtain basic knowledge about emotional experiences of patients visiting a doctor. The theoretical viewpoint was that of social interaction and social construction of reality. The statements of the patients were categorized as follows: before the encounter, the social interaction, the outcome of the encounter, and unspecific worries. A tool for measuring the degree and profile of the worries will be developed. Some of the worries described will be studied in depth. An education programme for all staff members is planned.