Table 5 Results of Chi-squared tests for independency between doctor-patient relationship and relevant cost-control actions

Lower patient satisfaction.

Limit the cost of examinations.

0·043**

Limit the conditions for the usage of examinations/drugs/surgery.

9·23 × 10⁻⁴***

Reduce the use of brand-name drugs.

0·0529*

Increase the doctors’ workloads (e.g., have to explain more about why they made the healthcare decisions to patients).

0·0413**

The total cost on healthcare paid by patients increases.

3·76 × 10⁻⁴***

Hospitals accept fewer critically ill patients.

0·00172***

Hospitals’ cost-control actions increase staff workloads.

0·0438**

Hospitals’ cost-control actions seriously limit doctors’ healthcare performance.

0·00503***

Worsen the relationship between doctors and patients.

Limit the duration of hospitalization.

0·0653*

Limit the proportional cost of total medical expenses (the proportion of drug costs, etc.).

0·00379***

The total cost on healthcare paid by patients increases.

0·00942***

Hospitals’ cost-control actions increase staff workloads.

2·19 × 10⁻⁶***

Less medical resources for patients.

0·0432**