There were no statistical differences in communication scores among groups of gender (t = 0, 29, df = 219, p > 0, 05), places of residence (t = - 0, 06, df = 219, p > 0, 05), education levels (F = 0, 89, df = 2, t > 0, 05), doctors' specialties (F = 2, 67, df = 2, t > 0, 05), and previous experience with the outpatient ward (t = 0, 03, df = 219, p > 0, 05).