Conclusion
This analysis suggests that a large proportion of a broad medical inpatient sample have sensitive health topics, which was associated with lower satisfaction with care—particularly if the patient perceived patient–physician interactions during ward rounds as unsatisfactory. Specific physicians training in communication techniques how to identify, discuss and address sensitive topics may help to improve the care of these patients. Besides improving communication skills, future studies need to address the question which sensitive topics can be discussed at the bedside or in a more private setting.