This study measured whether the quality of the working relationship between a doctor and patient relates to treatment adherence and patient satisfaction over time. It surveyed 118 patients managing a range of chronic conditions.
What was studied?
118 patients with chronic conditions completed a questionnaire measuring the strength of their working alliance with their doctor alongside their confidence, adherence and overall satisfaction.
What did they find?
A strong working alliance and patient self-efficacy together explained 46% of the variation in how well people stuck with treatment. The alliance alone explained 68% of the variation in patient satisfaction, the strongest link found.
Why it matters
The relationship between clinician and patient is not just a pleasant extra. It is one of the biggest measurable factors in whether treatment actually works for a patient and whether they feel satisfied with their care.
Why we included it
It illustrates that the clinical relationship itself is a measurable driver of outcomes, not simply a courtesy layered on top of treatment.
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What was studied?
118 patients with chronic conditions completed a questionnaire measuring the strength of their working alliance with their doctor alongside their confidence, adherence and overall satisfaction.
What did they find?
A strong working alliance and patient self-efficacy together explained 46% of the variation in how well people stuck with treatment. The alliance alone explained 68% of the variation in patient satisfaction, the strongest link found.
Why it matters
The relationship between clinician and patient is not just a pleasant extra. It is one of the biggest measurable factors in whether treatment actually works for a patient and whether they feel satisfied with their care.
Why we included it
It illustrates that the clinical relationship itself is a measurable driver of outcomes, not simply a courtesy layered on top of treatment.