This morning’s Medicolegal Monday discussed the importance of communication skills when speaking with patients and their families (if you haven’t already read it, go there first). Soon after going to press, I noticed this important online-only article just published by JAMA-Open that complements that discussion. Kratzke, et al. randomized surgeons to wear either clear masks or covered masks for each clinic visit with a new patient. Two hundred patients were enrolled from 15 surgeons’ clinics in 7 subspecialties. Briefly, the authors found that patients who interacted with surgeons who wore clear masks were more likely to rate their surgeons higher for providing understandable explanations, empathy, and trust. And although patients preferred surgeons with clear masks over covered ones, more than half of the surgeons preferred the covered (they rated it before knowing the patient results).
I have only one thought after reading this study: “WHY DIDN’T I THINK OF THIS???!!!” This is a brilliant intervention, not only for provider-patient communication, but for provider-provider communication. Think of how much better it will be to communicate with the OR staff, not to mention trainees. At the time of this writing, the medical-grade, FDA-approved clear masks used in the study are quite pricey. But it’s only a matter of time until they are mass-produced and much less expensive. Put me on the list!
30 Pack Disposable Face_Mask with Clear Window for Adults,Single Color Anti-Dust Breathable 3 Ply Face Covering Outdoor Facial Protection Face Bandanas Visible Expression for Surdomute Men Women https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08WB2GG6C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QBNJQXAWGTZQYC26K7YK?psc=1
These inexpensive disposable masks are available on Amazon.