This study used video recordings of simulated consultations to evaluate the effect of seating arrangements and stethoscope visibility on patient enablement and non-verbal behavior. Twelve consultations were recorded with six actor-patients and a 'real' doctor, where either the doctor or actor-patient sat in a large executive chair. The consultations were evaluated on three measures: Patient Enablement Index (PEI) Leicester Assessment Package (LAP) Non-Verbal Communication (NVC) Key Findings The doctor's performance was consistent on the LAP score. Patient enablement and non-verbal communication significantly improved when actor-patients occupied the executive chair. Stethoscope visibility did not have a measurable effect. In summary, when patients occupied the larger chair, there was a significant objective improvement in measures of patient experience during the consultation.
Jiwa M, Krejany C, Gaedtke L, Kanjo E, Nagendran R, O'Shea C, Greenlees I. Can doctors improve the patient experience by rearranging the furniture and equipment in their office? A video recorded simulation. Patient Experience Journal. 2019; 6(1):37-41. doi: 10.35680/2372-0247.1343.