By Isaac Axel
Communication between physicians and patients plays a critical role in improving healthcare outcomes. Yet, this vital component is often overlooked or undervalued. In this article, we explore how healthcare providers can enhance their communication skills to better engage with patients and ultimately achieve better health outcomes.
A major challenge faced by healthcare providers is the gap in health literacy. Research indicates that a large portion of the population, approximately 88%, lacks the basic skills necessary to understand medical information. Without clear and effective communication, patients are at risk of misunderstanding treatment instructions, which can lead to poor adherence to prescribed therapies and negative health consequences.
To overcome this challenge, doctors must take a proactive role in ensuring patients understand the information they are given. Building a rapport with patients is the first step, and this is often achieved by engaging in active listening, maintaining empathy, and making eye contact. These simple but powerful actions help patients feel more comfortable, respected, and willing to engage in their own healthcare.
Physicians also need to be mindful of how they communicate technical information. A change in tone, body language, or word choice can drastically improve how a patient perceives and processes the information. Rephrasing complex medical terms into layman’s language or asking the patient to repeat back the information can help ensure clarity and reduce confusion.
On an organizational level, healthcare providers can work to improve patient outcomes by adjusting their processes. For example, allowing for longer consultations, especially for complex cases, can give patients the time they need to fully understand their treatment options. Encouraging regular visits for ongoing care also strengthens the patient-physician relationship and improves patient adherence to health recommendations. Additionally, in cases where regular visits are not possible, a medical answering service company can provide the insight necessary.
To learn more about how effective communication can improve patient outcomes, please check out the accompanying resource.
