In recent years, the importance of social differences in the doctor-patient relationship has often been the subject of research. The 2002 review synthesised evidence on this topic. Given the growing importance of social inequalities in health care, an update of this review is highly relevant. Twenty original research articles and meta-analyses are included. Social inequalities in doctor-patient communication are described according to the following classification: verbal behaviour, including instrumental and affective behaviour, non-verbal behaviour and patient-centred behaviour. This review indicates that the literature on the social gradient in doctor-patient communication that has been published over the past decade raises new issues and themes. Firstly, most of the studies found emphasise the importance of communication reciprocity. Secondly, there seems to be a growing interest in the patient's perception of doctor-patient communication. By increasing doctors' awareness of communication differences and allowing patients to express concerns and preferences, more effective communication can be established.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738399109004571?via%3Dihub