Effects of communication about uncertainty and oncologist gender on the physician-patient relationship

Objective: Physicians are increasingly expected to share uncertain information, yet there is concern about possible negative effects on patients. How uncertainty is conveyed and by whom may influence patients’ response. We tested the effects of verbally and non-verbally communicating uncertainty by a male vs. female oncologist on patients’ trust and intention to seek a second opinion. Methods: In an experimental video vignettes study conducted...