Importance of modern bedside manners

A doctor's ability to demonstrate compassion and empathy-the essence of bedside manners-remains as crucial today as ever. Yet modern medical training does not prepare doctors to meet the social and emotional demands of a rapidly changing clinical environment. Prompted by Debrett's reframing of 'modern manners', the authors explore how social protocols for manners apply in the healthcare setting. They identify three key areas where better etiquette could make a tangible difference for patients and carers: digital communication, day-to-day interactions on wards, authentically apologising. They note that graduating healthcare professionals often lack structured guidance on sustaining face-to-face empathy in an increasingly digital world. Similarly, small acts of politeness and genuine acknowledgement of a patient's reality during day-to-day interaction (such as timely updates or warm personal greetings) can significantly defuse anxiety. They also point out that a well-placed, heartfelt apology can restore trust when things go wrong, a skill rarely discussed in formal training. The authors argue that embedding these simple, modern manners into everyday practice is not just an optional extra; it is a vital professional competency. By explicitly teaching and modelling interpersonal skills alongside clinical or technical training, they suggest medical educators can better equip the next generation to address patients' emotional needs and enhance the overall care experience.