Physician-Patient Communication

An effective physician-patient encounter includes constructive information exchange and optimal decision-making. Research reveals that a favorable patient-physician dynamic positively affects short, intermediate and long-term patient outcomes. (9)

Physician empathy, courtesy, and encouragement of questions have been associated with patient satisfaction, compliance and comprehension.  Reflective listening, communicating at a patient’s level of understanding, and addressing a patient’s daily living situation have been shown to enhance information exchange. In addition, research suggests that patients who are integrally involved in their own medical decisions have better health outcomes. (9)