When I began my “Ask Dr. Walt” program on Liftable TV, the production team debated whether I should wear a white coat or not. New research shows we made the right decision. In recent years, casual physician attire such as scrubs, fleece jackets, or softshell jackets has become increasingly popular.

We could find no studies that told us what you, our viewers, might want. So, the decision was made, I was to wear a white coat.

And now it turns out that the decision is what most people prefer.

Earlier this year researchers sought public opinion on physician attire with a survey that included nearly 500 adults.

The survey found that the lay public associates the traditional white coat with physician experience and professionalism.

Not only did the majority perceive that physicians in white coats were more experienced and professional, to my surprise they rated the physicians in white coats as more friendly than those wearing a fleece or a softshell jacket.

So, white coat it was, and for now, the white coat remains.

The study was published in JAMA Network Open.

© Copyright WLL, INC. 2021. This blog provides a wide variety of general health information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your regular physician. If you are concerned about your health, take what you learn from this blog and meet with your personal doctor to discuss your concerns.