Working toward the best doctor-patient communication.
Communication and interaction with the patient is an integral part of a doctor's job. As a result of advancements in technology, patients today have greater access to information on health issues and expect more dedicated communication from their doctors. This article examines three factors that may enhance communication between doctors and patients: two-way communication, biopsychosocial content and nonverbal communication. Factors such as culture and practicality are also discussed. The involvement of a health psychologist is recommended in some cases. This provides a possible direction toward the ideal doctor-patient communication, in the interest of providing best healthcare.
Department of Paediatrics, Adolescent Medicine Service, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119074. li_fang_neo@nuhs.edu.sg
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D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003142:Communication; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005260:Female; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009633:Nonverbal Communication; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012846:Singapore