OF COURSE bedside manner is important.In fact,many patients sue doctors not because of a poor result but because the doctor was brusque or unapproachable.Just talking and LISTENING can be key.
An example:A 30 year old patient was seen by me.She had a contusion of her spinal cord and resultant severe foot pain all the time.She hurts when she walks and has a lot of other related stuff going on.She has tried lyrica and the like without success.Onher first visit I sensed she was apprehensive.I talked to her and explained that maybe an orthotic can help.She seemed pleased.When she left,I overheard her telling the office staff how good Iwas.That makes all the other issues we deal with on a daily basis(HMOs,Medicare's changing laws,professional jealousy,etc) worth it!