Personality, Implicit Bias, and Emotional Intelligence: Impact on Physician Attitudes, Behaviors, and Patient Care

Physicians are responsible for making crucial decisions in regard to assessment, treatment recommendations, and management of complex medical disorders. When underlying biases influence their decisions, it can have a significant impact on outcomes of patient care. Gaining a better understanding of the underlying factors subconsciously influencing physician biases, thoughts, and perceptions will help raise awareness as to the extent and impact of these behaviors and open up opportunities to provide resources to enhance overall care relationships. Strategies for improvement include raising levels of awareness and acceptance, addressing underlying barriers, motivating change, and providing appropriate education and training to enhance care relationships that improve outcomes of care.