A recent survey has revealed that despite growing concerns about their health, Americans are increasingly confident in discussing their fears with doctors.
The third annual poll, which surveyed 2,000 U.S. adults, examined their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward the healthcare industry. The results showed that 42% of Americans continue to worry they may have an undiagnosed health condition.
However, the fear of discussing health concerns with doctors is declining. This year, only 25% of respondents admitted to being afraid to speak with their healthcare provider about their conditions and symptoms, a significant drop from 46% in 2023 and 51% in 2022.
The survey, commissioned by PatientPoint and conducted by Talker Research, also found that trust in healthcare providers has risen. One-third of respondents reported increased confidence in their doctor over the past year.
Yet, while trust in doctors is growing, visiting the doctor’s office still causes anxiety for many. Over half (54%) of those surveyed said they feel nervous before appointments, up from 39% in 2022 and 48% in 2023. Reasons for this anxiety included fear of being judged (37%), concerns over the cost of treatment (29%), and the possibility of being referred to a specialist (29%).
The survey revealed that 82% of Americans have visited their doctor in the past year, with many expressing concerns before their appointments. A common issue is the feeling of being unprepared: 53% of respondents said they wished they knew how to better describe their symptoms and conditions to their healthcare provider.
Additionally, 49% said they would appreciate more guidance on how to communicate effectively with their doctors.
“There is a significant opportunity to engage patients more actively in their health journey,” said PatientPoint Founder and CEO Mike Collette. “Providing patients with the right information before, during, and after their visit enables them to have more meaningful discussions with their doctors and make informed decisions about their health.”
Despite these concerns, most patients feel positive about their interactions with healthcare providers. Four in five respondents (81%) said they feel their doctor listens to their concerns, and only 37% leave appointments feeling confused, a drop from 48% in 2022.
Respondents also reported feeling more heard and respected by their doctors (66%), having an overall positive experience (54%), and feeling that their doctor takes their background into account (37%).
The survey also highlighted growing trust in healthcare technology. Thirty percent of respondents said they would trust the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their doctor’s office. Meanwhile, over half expressed confidence in wearables that track health data (59%), interactive touchscreens in doctor’s offices (57%), and remote patient monitoring (56%).
Two-thirds (68%) said they trust online health portals that provide access to education and medication information tailored to their health.
Furthermore, 28% of respondents believe their healthcare experience could be improved with more personalized features, such as tailored medication information based on their condition, while 20% would appreciate being greeted by name in exam rooms, and 19% would like tailored education sent before their visit.
“As healthcare becomes increasingly personalized, providing patients with tailored information throughout their health journey will be crucial,” Collette added. “When patients receive relevant content at the right time, it can serve as a powerful motivator, leading to better health outcomes.”
