"As a patient, I'd always prefer the clinician who is kind, inclusive and upfront about having to double-check something over someone who's abrupt and dismissive but able to rapidly recall medical facts. We have no concrete idea the extent to which positive interpersonal interactions impact health, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's profound."
"Kindness and inclusivity encourage people to participate in their healthcare by asking questions, understanding their treatment, adhering to medication regimens and enhancing health-seeking behaviours for the future, which all have a positive impact on a person's health."
A physician who experienced multiple serious medical complications—including a surgical error resulting in additional spinal damage, permanent neurological injury from disc herniation, and a brain tumor—reflects on lessons learned straddling the roles of doctor and patient. The author emphasizes that bedside manner is not secondary to clinical knowledge but fundamental to effective medicine. Kind, inclusive, and transparent communication encourages patients to actively participate in their healthcare through asking questions, understanding treatments, adhering to medications, and seeking future care. Positive interpersonal interactions likely have profound effects on health outcomes, though the exact mechanisms remain unclear. The author advocates for clinicians who prioritize empathy and clear communication alongside medical expertise.
#bedside-manner #patient-doctor-communication #medical-professionalism #healthcare-empathy #clinical-practice
Read at www.theguardian.com
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