Re: Professional Image and Outpatient Attire

[Guest guest]

Aside from the " contempt from patients " , in this day of swine flu etc, I think

it's just makes common sense to wear a lab coat which you take off when you

leave and get it washed/dry clean once a week. Been in business for 25 years and

I did wear white lab coat for quite some time also with a tie...it did make a

difference with the compliance from pateints and in general a very professional

look. Since last 5 years I just got lazy and stopped wearing the lab coat,

however, I am planning to go back as I do not want to bring home something I

might catch from my dear patients. I have had patients who would tell me in the

middle of the treatment that they think that they might have the " flu " .

Hiten Dave'

Professional Image and Outpatient Attire

I have a question for the group regarding professional attire in the

outpatient setting. It looks like previous posts have dealt with the issue

of wearing scrubs in this setting. My question is in regards to a

standardized or uniform look. We are a hospital-based outpatient clinic, and

we are considering some changes to the attire worn by our therapists and

staff.

I am curious to know from the group what your experiences are with

outfitting therapists, secretaries, aids, etc., in some sort of a

standardized or uniform look. This could include a standard polo-style shirt

with a company logo and a specified color of pants. Is this more prevalent

in a private practice clinic vs. a hospital-based clinic? What has been the

response of your employees and patients if you have done this? Thank you in

advance for your response.

Hyde, PT, MBA

Providence Medical Center

Kansas City, KS