Tips on Effective Patient-Provider Communication

Communication is an important part of our lives. The quality of our communication with one another can cause problems or improve our circumstances. Communicating with a physician is also very important. A lack of quality communication between a patient and a physician causes problems with care, medication management, symptom management and comprehension, and can also cause stress and confusion for both parties involved.

Causes of Poor Communication

• There can be many causes of bad communication between a patient and physician. Both sides should be fully aware of the possible problems beforehand. Some of these problems can be:
  • Language barrier, speech difficulties
  • Multicultural differences
  • Gender differences
  • Level of education
  • Level of understanding or altered mental status
  • Effects of medication
  • Psychological or emotional distress
  • Being negative

How Patients Can Improve Communication

• Many simple techniques can actually help with improving communication. Writing down what questions you have for the physician can help ensure you have clear communication and that you get an answer to all questions and concerns. Taking a family member with you that can advocate for you or assist with relating your concerns is also helpful. If you have a language barrier such as the inability to speak English, take an interpreter with you. Also, try to communicate face to face with your physician so that you can be sure he is listening and understanding everything.

How Physicians Can Improve Communication

• There are many different ways a physician can improve the communication between herself and the patient. The January 2005 issue of "Journal of the American Osteopathic Association," reports five elements that the physician must have to successfully communicate with patients, according to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education:
  • Listening
  • Use active questioning
  • Provide information in a clear, concise manner
  • Counsel and educate patients and families
  • Make informed decisions

  It is imperative for a physician to take her time, and not be in a rush when seeing a patient. One of the best things that a physician can do is to take the time to sit down with the patient and family to discuss any concerns or problems.

Benefits of Good Communication

• The fact is, good communication skills are learned. Making an effort to communicate effectively can make a real difference. Establishing quality communication between a patient and physician can be an excellent treatment in itself. If a patient believes that his physician listens to him and understands his concerns, he will feel more confident about the care he is receiving. In turn, the physician will also be more at ease if he believes the patient and/or family understands the information he is trying to relate. Physicians should strive to be empathetic and take their time with each patient. Both the patient and physician have parts to play to be successful with communication.