Here’s why being a kind GP matters

Focusing on the human side may be as important as medication when it comes to diabetes: study
Smiling doctor

Being a caring, empathic doctor may have life-lengthening effects for patients with diabetes, UK researchers say. 

Their study shows patients with a GP they find empathic have a 40-50% lower risk of dying a decade after being diagnosed with the condition, than those with a less compassionate doctor. 

Study author and GP Dr Hajira Dambha-Miller said the effects of a caring doctor were comparable to prescribing medication. 

“Our findings suggest that these more human elements of healthcare early in the course of diabetes may be important in their long-term health outcomes.