I’m going to start this series off rather slow and ask if any has ever experienced an arrogant and or plain disrespectful practitioner of the medical arts? Recently I spoke with a very concerned father asking why his family practitioner scared his 10-year-old daughter with a serious misdiagnosis. Now while I’m no medical doctor I cannot begin to answer that except from the point of view that a bit of bedside many is rather important. More on that at a later time, but fairly or not, doctors carry a “know-it-all” reputation. Uneven power dynamics severely shape physician-patient engagement. That relationship is very important if the patient is to allow any type of trust. However, doctors still interrupt patients early and often during consultations. Imagine how frustrating it can be to try and get your point across, while the doc gives you his rapid diagnosis. Many patients grant doctors all-knowing status and blindly follow their advice.
Now keep in mind that the majority of doctors you may encounter are the pinnacle of their profession and everything you could ask for in a physician. This means that these professionals are reassuring, personable, and caring. Whether you’re in for a routine appointment or battling a potentially life-threatening condition, these doctors leave you feeling like you’re in good hands.
A New York Times Article, by Aaron E Caroll (2015) To Be Sued Less, Doctors Should Consider Talking to Patients More, states the experience of a lot of patients. According to the article, “Decades-old studies have shown (1997) suns up that primary care physicians sued less often are those more likely to spend time educating patients about their care, more likely to use humor and laugh with their patients and more likely to try to get their patients to talk and express their opinions.” We all agree that a primary care provider who is willing to provide the proper care and educational information is a good thing yes? So just want to get you all in the mood for what’s coming next!!
References:
To Be Sued Less, Doctors Should Consider Talking to Patients More Aaron E Caroll (2015)
Physician-Patient CommunicationThe Relationship With Malpractice Claims Among Primary Care Physicians and Surgeons Wendy Levinson, MD; Debra L. Roter, DrPH; John P. Mullooly, Ph.D.; et al