In searching for a new approach to matching patients with physicians, a Texas hospital has turned to the speed-dating model.
Dubbed Doc Shop, these events help patients choose an obstetrician-gynecologists or pediatrician at the hospital. During the informal meet-and-greets, a group of doctors sit at separate tables while roughly a dozen patients rotate through the room and spend five minutes asking physicians about their practice styles.
Kevin Pho, MD, explained in a blog post today how the approach offers value to patients as well as physicians:
It’s a worthwhile investment for doctors, who can gain 3 to 4 new patients in one hour. That’s not bad.
But it’s also a great opportunity for patients. There are a variety of primary care practice styles - ranging from those who are more terse, yet stay on time, to those who take more time with patients, but tend to run late - and it’s important for patients to find a doctor who’s their ideal match.
Using a speed dating-like setting is a novel way for patients to get a glimpse of their potential doctor’s personality. It’s certainly much easier than scheduling an appointment simply to meet the physician.
