Perception of patients on their relations with physicians

Abstract Communicating properly is fundamental to improve physician-patient relations and the quality of health care. Considering this, the current study analyzed the perception of 200 patients in Aracaju/SE, Brazil, on their relations with physicians. This is an exploratory, cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative study with the application of a questionnaire. The sample was composed of young adults, females (71.5%), single (50.0%), without higher education (47.5%) and mainly attended in public hospitals (26.5%). A favorable environment for a good physician-patient relationship concerns not only the hospital infrastructure, but also the communication skills of health professionals. Regarding the relationship with physicians, most patients are satisfied (86%) and declared trust in the professionals (84%). Patient privacy was respected in most cases.