Time in therapeutic relationships: myths and realities

Abstract

Both physicians and patients hold myths about the uses and value of time in therapeutic relationships. The realities about time differ. A review of studies of patient compliance and satisfaction with health care indicated that the amount of time spent with patients was not as important as the quality or content of time. The costs of time to physicians and patients are not often discussed, but can influence both the quality and quantity of time spent together and the therapeutic outcome.