Communicating With the Doctor

By Linda Bell Middleton

Regardless of whether you are a family member or a professional caregiver, understanding the principles of clear communication will help you be a more effective caregiver and a better advocate for the person in your care.
Why is there a critical need for better communication between health care professionals, home care companions, patients and family caregivers? Because good communication helps people clear up misunderstandings and confusion quickly, builds positive relationships and leads to better care.
Most of all, good communication reduces stress for everyone. It helps create the possibility that your caregiving experience both professional and family will be a time of personal growth and satisfactions.
Steps for Effective
Communication
To create a positive, productive relationship with healthcare providers, apply the following principles in a consistent, balanced way.
Establish Presence. Make eye contact with the people around you. Focus your attention and listen with your heart as well as your mind.
Participate Actively. To make your doctors visit more effective
Be prepared Think about your goals for your appointment.
Clearly state your purpose Give the reason why you are seeking medical help.
Give relevant information Focus on the most important information first.
Ask questions Be certain you understand what is taking place and what your care recipient needs.
Be assertive Without being rude or overbearing, explain your needs and what you are not able to do.
Build Mutual Understanding. Building understanding and trust is a process. Practice the following and your ability to communication will grow stronger.
Ask for clarification Try to understand the meaning that the speaker intends.
Demonstrate Understanding Use phrases such as “So what you are saying is”
Avoid Assumptions Ask questions until you are sure of what is being said.
State your difficulties and concerns If you have a worry or concern, state them briefly and clearly.