The Unexpected Ways Patients Say ‘Thank You’ and Why Gratitude Matters in Medicine

By Resa E. Lewiss, MD

February 27, 2026

As an emergency medicine and lifestyle medicine physician, I’ve long observed the profound health benefits of gratitude – the practice of being thankful and appreciative with conscious reflection on the positive aspects of one’s life. Research consistently demonstrates that individuals who prioritize gratitude are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, including medication adherence, nutritious food choices, and regular exercise. Cultivating gratitude is associated with improved sleep quality, reduced stress levels (both subjective and measured through cortisol levels), and enhanced mental well-being, alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.

The Unique Dynamic of Emergency Medicine

The patient-physician interactions in the emergency department (ED) are often brief and singular, differing significantly from the ongoing relationships built in primary care or physical therapy. Knowing they may rarely, if ever, encounter their ED physician again, patients frequently ask: “How can I express my gratitude?” In my 25 years practicing emergency medicine, I’ve witnessed patients demonstrate their thankfulness in a variety of ways.

Six Ways Patients Express Gratitude

1. A Simple ‘Thank You’: While seemingly basic, a verbal expression of gratitude is the most common and impactful gesture. Even amidst the chaos and stress of the ED, a sincere “thank you” is deeply appreciated.
2. Food Donations: The second most frequent expression of gratitude involves providing food for the healthcare team. Deliveries of donuts, pizza, bagels, and other treats, often accompanied by a thank-you card, are common, particularly during the holidays. These gestures boost morale and are shared among the entire team.
3. Personal Notes: I, and my colleagues, have saved every handwritten thank-you note received from patients. The thoughtfulness and effort involved in writing and sending a personal note are deeply meaningful.
4. Patient Feedback Surveys: Hospitals often utilize patient feedback surveys to assess the quality of care. Completing these surveys with positive feedback can have a significant impact on the ED team, leadership, and the department’s overall standing within the hospital system.
5. Communication with Supervisors: Patients who understand the dynamics of workplace evaluations sometimes send emails or letters to the physician’s supervisor, highlighting their positive experience. Such unsolicited feedback can positively influence performance reviews, bonuses, and opportunities for advancement.
6. Financial Gifts: Though less common, monetary donations are sometimes offered. These are typically directed towards specific initiatives, such as trauma room renovations or lecture series endowments, through the hospital’s office of advancement and giving.

The Power of a Verbal Thank You

When asked for advice on how to show gratitude, my consistent recommendation is the simple verbal “thank you.” This expression offers the most reliable and universal benefit for both the patient and the healthcare provider.

Lifestyle medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and social well-being. Gratitude, as a core component of this approach, reinforces these connections, fostering a more positive and healing environment for all involved. Stanford Lifestyle Medicine highlights the importance of evidence-based wellness practices, and gratitude aligns perfectly with this philosophy.

Resa E. Lewiss, MD, is a lifestyle medicine and emergency medicine physician. She is an adjunct professor of emergency medicine at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. She is the host of The Visible Voices Podcast and the co-author of MicroSkills: Small Actions, Considerable Impact. She can be reached via her website resaelewissmd.com.