In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the University of Tokyo in Japan examined the benefits of treatment by female doctors. The study analyzed data from two databases, one containing general medical claims and the other focusing on doctor expertise and work practices. The researchers included 458,101 female patients and 318,819 male patients aged 65 and over who were hospitalized between 2016 and 2019.
The results were clear: patients treated by female doctors had a lower rate of re-hospitalization and a lower mortality rate in certain diseases compared to those treated by male doctors. The researchers suggested several reasons for these findings. They noted that male doctors may underestimate the severity of diseases in female patients, leading to delayed or incomplete treatment. Additionally, they found that communication between female doctors and female patients was more effective, leading to better diagnoses and treatment. Another possible explanation is that patients may feel less embarrassed during examinations by female doctors, leading to more comprehensive care.
This research adds to previous studies showing that treatment by female doctors is associated with higher quality care, particularly for women. The importance of effective communication and understanding between doctors and patients cannot be overstated in improving healthcare outcomes. This study highlights the potential benefits of seeking treatment from female doctors, particularly for women. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to prioritize patient-centered care and address gender disparities in healthcare delivery.
