Whether we like it or not, we physicians are being rated everyday either individually or as a profession-- from the popular RateMD website which many patients frequent, to PAR (Peer Assessment Reviews) from our Colleges. 

In fact, there are multiple batteries of assessment of Physician Performance, e.g.: 

• 360 Degree Physician Performance Assessment, 
• Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS), 
• Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS)

So, what are the top 3 attributes your patients want from you?

1. Aptitude
2. Attitude
3. Accessibility

And of these 3 As, which one do you think ranks as the most important?

Surprisingly, aptitude is NOT on the top, despite what traditional med schools or residency programs have trained us to believe. 

During malpractice complaints/ lawsuits, most MDs get pardoned for their incompetence if their attitude was great and they have been accessible to patients. Conversely, MDs get the harshest verdict if they keep denying fault, blaming others or showing little remorse. 

Remember: It’s not your Aptitude but your Attitude that determines your Altitude!