Discussion
Patient care centered towards providing healthier relationship offers better outcomes to the patients as well as the health care providers. I believe that the patients have all the rights to know about their health information and it’s the duty of the health care provider to communicate with the patient. I understand that the patients are more comfortable with the female physicians as this gender is inclined towards emotions as they try to build a positive partnership with the patients. I cannot be completely sure that all health care providers follow the rules of a healthy communication as some of them may be only working towards increasing business without providing proper care.
It is apparent that older individuals and children may have poorer communication skills and a few health care providers distance themselves due to impatience in communicating with such individuals. The healthcare provider must show care and confidence, comfort parents and allow them to express their feelings and display ownership. I do not think any such policy exists for the improvement of health communication; however I feel that on the basis of humanity and by increasing patience levels proper communication can be achieved.
The patients must be aware of their health issues and must be in a position to communicate it properly to the health care provider. Health Literacy is to have good knowledge to realize and understand the health risks and make appropriate health choices. The care providers must listen to the patients on their understanding about their health and provide
Response to Student 1:
It is a global understanding that the patients will surely feel better if the care provider cares an individual and listens to them. The care providers must strive to build ‘Trust’ in the patients so that the patients are confident about the treatment they would receive. The care providers must have patience while dealing with people with poor communication. I agree that asking the patient to repeat the information will help the providers to know the literacy rate.
Response to Student 2:
It is true that people feel confident if they know that they are heard, and relevant perceptions, judgments and reactions people have with respect to each other. All patients may not ask questions to know more about their health status and the onus must lie on the providers to go an extra mile and make the patient feel comfortable by providing the complete information. It is important to be aware of the health conditions on a regular basis and be educated on the same.
