Survey on Standards for Choosing a Primary Doctor and Sources of Patient Dissatisfaction
Key facts
- Survey on Standards for Choosing a Primary Doctor and Sources of Patient Dissatisfaction
- NEXER and New Heart Watanabe International Hospital conducted a survey of 200 people nationwide regarding their primary doctors. While clinical accuracy is the top selection criterion, 36.5% of respondents have experienced dissatisfaction, primarily due to communication issues.
- Source: PR Times
- Date: June 11, 2026
Direct answer
NEXER and New Heart Watanabe International Hospital conducted a survey of 200 people nationwide regarding their primary doctors. While clinical accuracy is the top selection criterion, 36.5% of respondents have experienced dissatisfaction, primarily due to communication issues.
- Citation
- Survey on Standards for Choosing a Primary Doctor and Sources of Patient Dissatisfaction (June 11, 2026), PR Times
- Source
- PR Times
- Date
- June 11, 2026
NEXER and New Heart Watanabe International Hospital conducted a survey of 200 people nationwide regarding their primary doctors. While clinical accuracy is the top selection criterion, 36.5% of respondents have experienced dissatisfaction, primarily due to communication issues.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: June 11, 2026 at 19:00
- 🔍 Collected: June 11, 2026 at 10:21
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: June 11, 2026 at 10:56 (35 min after Collected)
■ Do you get what you really need from your primary doctor?
When you fall ill, your primary doctor is your first point of contact. Because it is a long-term relationship, criteria for choosing one vary—some value technical skill, while others prioritize approachability or convenience. We partnered with New Heart Watanabe International Hospital to survey 200 people across Japan to understand what they truly demand from their doctors.
Survey Overview:
Method: Internet-based questionnaire
Period: May 20 – May 27, 2026
Target: People who regularly visit a primary doctor
Valid responses: 200
■ 30.5% prioritize “Diagnostic accuracy and medical expertise”
When asked what they prioritize most when choosing a primary doctor, 30.5% selected “diagnostic accuracy and expertise.” This was followed by “accessibility” (24.0%) and “approachability/atmosphere” (21.5%). While medical reliability is paramount, the inclusion of accessibility and ease of consultation suggests that patients value a sustainable relationship and environment.
■ 36.5% have felt dissatisfied with their doctor
When asked about experiences of dissatisfaction, 36.5% of respondents answered in the affirmative. Among those who have felt dissatisfied, the most common reason was “they do not listen to me,” reported by 52.1%. This was followed by “short examination time despite long waits” (35.6%) and “explanations were too brief or difficult to understand” (31.5%). Patients seem to be seeking not just a clinical check-up, but a sense of security and genuine engagement regarding their concerns.
■ 29.5% find it difficult to consult on second opinions
We also inquired about the difficulty of requesting a second opinion. Excluding those who have never considered one, 29.5% stated they have found it difficult to consult their primary doctor. Common reasons included the fear that it would be perceived as a “betrayal” or anxiety that the doctor would change how they treat the patient afterward.
When you fall ill, your primary doctor is your first point of contact. Because it is a long-term relationship, criteria for choosing one vary—some value technical skill, while others prioritize approachability or convenience. We partnered with New Heart Watanabe International Hospital to survey 200 people across Japan to understand what they truly demand from their doctors.
Survey Overview:
Method: Internet-based questionnaire
Period: May 20 – May 27, 2026
Target: People who regularly visit a primary doctor
Valid responses: 200
■ 30.5% prioritize “Diagnostic accuracy and medical expertise”
When asked what they prioritize most when choosing a primary doctor, 30.5% selected “diagnostic accuracy and expertise.” This was followed by “accessibility” (24.0%) and “approachability/atmosphere” (21.5%). While medical reliability is paramount, the inclusion of accessibility and ease of consultation suggests that patients value a sustainable relationship and environment.
■ 36.5% have felt dissatisfied with their doctor
When asked about experiences of dissatisfaction, 36.5% of respondents answered in the affirmative. Among those who have felt dissatisfied, the most common reason was “they do not listen to me,” reported by 52.1%. This was followed by “short examination time despite long waits” (35.6%) and “explanations were too brief or difficult to understand” (31.5%). Patients seem to be seeking not just a clinical check-up, but a sense of security and genuine engagement regarding their concerns.
■ 29.5% find it difficult to consult on second opinions
We also inquired about the difficulty of requesting a second opinion. Excluding those who have never considered one, 29.5% stated they have found it difficult to consult their primary doctor. Common reasons included the fear that it would be perceived as a “betrayal” or anxiety that the doctor would change how they treat the patient afterward.
FAQ
What is the most important factor in choosing a primary doctor?
Clinical accuracy and high level of medical expertise.
Why is it difficult to consult a primary doctor about a second opinion?
Patients worry about being disrespectful or damaging their relationship with the doctor.
What is the main complaint patients have?
Lack of adequate listening and poor communication.