Talkin’ with the doctor
Your doctor may be an expert in patient health diagnosis but often falls down in explaining clearly just what is wrong with you according to studies in both the United States and Australia.
Whereas doctors are trained in diagnosis and management of health conditions they are not trained in communication techniques and the ability to easily impart basic important information to their patients.
In a study published in the US ‘Archives of Internal Medicine’ it was found that doctors explained the purpose of the new medication 87% of the time, and gave a name to the medication 74% of the time, but explained its possible adverse side effects only 35% of the time. They told patients the length of time a medication needed to be taken 34% of the time, the dosage 55% and when and how often to take it 58% of the time.
In Australia the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) says that in about 40% of cases patients want more information than they are given, and that health professionals tend to underestimate the public’s desire for clear information.
As a result the NHMRC has published an online booklet for patients, doctors, and other health professionals on how to improve their communication skills. It also suggests that patients need to take the initiative more frequently and ask questions when they are uncertain about treatment and medication.
Key questions the NHMRC believes should be asked relate to the seriousness of the patient’s condition, the medical options, the costs, the side effects, and the potential risks and benefits of test, treatment, or surgery.
