The biggest complaint that patients have about their doctors appears to be related to time and attention issues.

Long Wait Times

Patients frequently complain about having to wait too long to see their doctor, both in terms of scheduling appointments and in the waiting room on the day of their visit[1][5][6]. Long wait times can be very frustrating for patients, especially if they arrive on time for their scheduled appointment[6].

Before I opened my practice in Portland, I often wondered how and why doctors were so often behind. One of the reasons that has become abundantly clear, is unexpected issues and concerns of patients. Something important to the patient comes up, and in an effort to spend enough time with them so that they feel heard and taken seriously, and the extra time for them, makes the doctor behind for you. What we do at our office is remind you that all patients will get the time they need at any given time, in order to help them understand their situation.

The good news: This applies to you too.

The bad news: This applies to you too. Some days you won’t need extra time but others will, so you may have to wait a few extra minutes. BUT, if you need extra time, they will wait for you. Quid pro quo. This is why we call our office a community. We work together and we understand that some days are better than others, but at the end of the day, everyone will have been served with respect, consideration and the greatest efficiency possible.

Not Spending Enough Time with Patients

Once patients do get to see the doctor, a common complaint is that the visit feels rushed and the doctor doesn’t spend enough time with them[4][6]. Patients often feel like they don’t get enough personal attention or that the doctor isn’t fully listening to their concerns[1][4]. We always make time for patients.

Feeling Unheard or Not Taken Seriously

Many patients complain about feeling like their doctor isn’t truly listening to them or taking their concerns seriously[1][3]. This ties into the issues of rushed visits and lack of personal attention. Patients want to feel heard and have their questions and worries properly addressed[1][3]. The beginning of healing is when the doctor hears and understands your story and your concerns. Period. A doctor that doesn’t listen, or address your concerns in a respectful manner should be fired by you. There is someone better who will listen to you. Research shows that doctors who listen get better results for you. If you feel heard and respected, understood, you will get better results in that office because your mindset impacts your healing. NEVER settle for less.

These time and attention-related complaints seem to be at the core of patient dissatisfaction with their doctors. While other issues like billing problems, poor communication, and unprofessional staff behavior are also mentioned, the complaints about not getting enough quality time and attention from the doctor appear to be the most prevalent and impactful based on the provided search results.

Citations:
[1] https://www.locumjobsonline.com/blog/patient-complaints-about-doctors/
[2] https://www.phillymalpracticelawyer.com/blog/common-reasons-for-patient-complaints-about-doctors/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8278513/
[4] https://www.elevatedhealth.md/blog/2019-8-19-9-complaints-about-a-primary-care-provider/
[5] https://www.collaboratemd.com/blog/responses-for-top-common-patient-complaints/
[6] https://rendia.com/resources/insights/what-patients-dont-want-top-complaints-about-your-practice/