Ebook Putting Communication Skills to Work
The medical interview is the most important clinical tool that physicians have at their disposal. Yet, up until recently, the medical profession has largely ignored the substantial impact of communication techniques and approaches on clinical outcomes, patient and physician satisfaction levels, and medical costs. One of the major barriers to acceptance among physicians has been the belief that communication skills are innate — “you either have them, or you don’t.” However, a growing body of research has demonstrated that not only is physician-patient communication a core clinical skill, but also that these skills can be taught, learned and retained.
Contents
Introduction
1 The Evidence
2 Conceptual Frameworks
3 Breaking It Down — The Skills
1. Skill: Showing Empathy
2. Skill: Open and Closed Questions
3. Skill: Active Listening
4. Skill: Non-Verbal Cues
5. Skill: Timing
6. Skill: Silence
7. Skill: Summarizing
8. Skill: Plain Language
9. Skill: Clarifying Responsibilities
10. Skill: Action Planning
11. Skill: Checking with the Patient
12. Skill: Following the Patient’s Lead
4 Putting It All Together — Four Skill Sets
A. Drawing Out the Patient
B. Handling Emotions
C. Sharing Decision Making
D. Getting Effective Closure
5 Reinforcement and Development
6 References
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