Perceptions of the White Coat: Generational, Regional, and Gender Differences Among Surgeons

• Published in: The Journal of surgical research 2024-10, Vol.302, p.376-384
• Main Authors: Whitrock, Jenna N., Cheon, Soyoung, Sisak, Stephanie, Pratt, Catherine G., Chae, Ryan C., Quillin, Ralph C., Justiniano, Carla F., Shah, Shimul A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Attitude of Health Personnel; Clinical attire; Clothing - psychology; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Perceptions; Physician preferences; Physicians, Women - psychology; Physicians, Women - statistics & numerical data; Sex Factors; Surgeons; Surgeons - psychology; Surgeons - statistics & numerical data; Surveys and Questionnaires - statistics & numerical data; United States; White coat
• ISSN: 0022-4804; 1095-8673; 1095-8673
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2024.07.078

Recent studies have evaluated patient perception of physician attire; however, few studies have considered physician perceptions of workplace attire. This study aimed to assess current trends regarding attire preferences among surgeons. A national, population-based survey was distributed via email and “X” (Twitter). Participants were asked to complete an online questionnaire regarding their perception of the white coat, preferred attire in clinical settings, and reasons for choice of attire. Of 481 participants, 172 (36%) were attendings, 164 (34%) were residents, 125 (26%) were medical students, and 20 (4%) were fellows. Those who practiced in the Midwest region were more likely to wear a white coat daily (35.1% versus 28.5% South, 23.5% Northeast, 20.0% West, P 20 y) were more likely to wear a white coat in the hospital and wear it daily (56% versus 36% of middle-career surgeons, 34% early-career surgeons, and 26% in training, P