Do Clothes Make the Doctor? Or Is It Time We Retire the White Coat? 🩺

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:woman_health_worker::man_health_worker: Do Clothes Still Make the Doctor? Re-examining White Coats, Trust & Infection Risk

For generations, the white coat has stood as a powerful symbol of the medical profession — tradition, trust, and authority all woven into one garment. But in today’s evidence-driven and infection-conscious healthcare world, is it still relevant?

In many countries, including the UK (NHS), white coats are now banned due to infection risks. Studies have shown they can carry dangerous pathogens like MRSA and VRE. Meanwhile, hospitals are leaning toward context-specific, practical dress codes like scrubs or PPE-based attire.

Yet, for some patients, especially the elderly, a white coat still evokes confidence. Others argue that what truly matters is not what a doctor wears — but how they communicate, treat, and care.

:brain: Let’s Discuss:

  • Do you think attire affects how patients perceive your competence or professionalism?
  • Have you noticed different reactions from patients when you wear scrubs vs. formal attire or white coats?
  • Should medical institutions strictly regulate what doctors wear based on evidence — or leave it to tradition and individual choice?

:megaphone: We want to hear your thoughts. Share your experience, hospital policies, or observations below :down_arrow:

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True white coats pose infection risks. Scrubs are now commonly worn by doctors and healthcare providers outside of clinical settings, increasing the risk of spreading infections.
I think there has to be some dress code ethics to be followed in healthcare.

Many patients still get trust and respect, immediately by seeing a doctor wearing it, making their presence important in a healthcare context.

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The basic thing is infection control should be maintained. we see medical students wearing white coats and going around on roads. The same with scrubs… so if you are using the same attire for medical procedure and while going out for lunch, it doesnt make any sense.

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Point to ponder. I hadn’t given any thought to it untill now.

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Most of the people will look forward for a doctor with white coat.

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Symbolism has its own value. Thus a white coat or scrubs help.

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White coat has been a symbol and an identity of doctors. We can’t just completely retire them away. So I guess using them smartly is the key. Meanwhile, scrubs are the best (and even relaxing :joy:) but yes wearing them all day long even after you’ve been to OT or on rounds will pose chances of infection. This needs to be given a thought!