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The Prevalence and Characteristics of Difficult Patient Encounters : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Jeffrey L Jackson1, Akira Kuriyama2, Jeff Whittle1
1Clement J. Zablocki Veterans' Administration Medical Center and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (J.L.J., J.W., A.D.-M., M.T., M.G.M., S.G., K.B., C.G., K.E.F.).
Healthcare providers perceive 17% of adult patients as difficult, particularly those with mental health conditions or chronic pain. Less experienced providers more frequently identify difficult encounters, impacting patient satisfaction and expectations.
Area of Science:
- Medical Practice and Patient Care
- Health Services Research
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Patient-provider interactions can be challenging, with some patients being perceived as difficult by healthcare professionals.
- Understanding the prevalence and factors contributing to difficult patient encounters is crucial for improving healthcare delivery.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of adult patients are perceived as difficult by providers in nonpsychiatric settings.
- Specific patient conditions and provider inexperience are key factors.
- Addressing these difficult encounters is essential for enhancing patient experience and healthcare quality.
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