How to communicate with your patients: 7 practical tips

A small change in tone or choice of words for you, or a few minutes to get to know the patient may seem trivial, but on the worst days of our patients’ lives, it can make all the difference.

Effective communication between physicians and their patients is a key component of good medical practice. Enhancing in communication skills training for physicians is an investment in better healthcare outcomes and improved patient-physician relationships.

Also, effective communication can help physicians collect comprehensive medical histories and understand the full context of a patient’s health, thus improving the accuracy of diagnoses. Miscommunication or lack of communication may lead to missed or incorrect diagnoses.

Physician-Patient Communication tips

Here, we provide 7 practical tips on how physicians can better communicate with their patients and utilize these skills in their practice.

1. Use plain language

Medical jargon can confuse patients and make them feel overwhelmed. Always aim to use simple, non-medical language when explaining conditions, procedures, or treatments. Ensure your patient comprehends what you’ve discussed by asking them to repeat it back in their own words.

2. Use visual aids

Visual aids like diagrams, charts, or anatomical models can help patients understand complex medical information. Utilize these tools while explaining medical conditions or procedures. You could also make use of digital platforms, where various educational videos or animations can be helpful.

3. Show empathy

Showing empathy can make patients feel validated and cared for. Patients are more sensitive to empathy that you are. Reflect your understanding of their situation or feelings with phrases like, “That sounds really tough,” or “I can understand why you might feel that way.” Make sure your tone of voice conveys kindness and understanding.

4. Encourage questions

Create an open dialogue with your patients by inviting them to ask questions. This encourages them to be active participants in their health care and ensures they fully understand their health situation. Phrases like, “Is there anything else you’d like to know?” or “Do you have any questions about what we’ve discussed?” can be helpful.

5. Be aware of non-verbal communication

Your body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice can impact how your message is received. Maintain eye contact, use open body language, and speak in a calm, reassuring tone.

6. Involve the patient in decision-making

Patient involvement in treatment decisions can lead to better adherence and satisfaction. Discuss all suitable treatment options and include them in making the final decision. This not only empowers patients but also promotes their commitment to the treatment plan.

7. Provide written information

Providing written information allows patients to review the discussion at their own pace. Handouts about their diagnosis, medication, or treatment can serve as a useful reference, especially for complex treatment plans. You can also recommend reliable online resources for additional information.

8. Be a partner with trusted company

Partnering with a company that provides a trusted, patient-useful service reduces the amount of unnecessary convincing you have to do when communicating with patients.

3billion offers reliable NGS genetic testing to facilitate communication between physicians and patients. We are constantly improving our service to become a self-explanatory, trusted rare disease diagnostics company and are recognized worldwide.

If you’re interested in NGS genetic testing in 60 countries around the world, get our exclusive brochure for healthcare providers!

GET A BROCHURE