Non-violent and emphatic communication facilitates better treatment of patients

Non-violent and emphatic communication facilitates better treatment of patients

Effective Communication is the key to building relationships, businesses, a career and it equally affects everything in this universe. However, we often do not realize that in addition to just transmitting information, a good communication strategy also positively effects the outcome and if not done properly, it can lead to unwanted disruption and miscommunication.

An effective non-violent communications strategy can help medical professionals in their career and in the treatment of the patients. Communication forms a core part of every doctor-patient relationship. To effectively treat any chronic disease, it is important for the doctor to know in detail the medical history of the patient. A positive communications approach helps a patient feel at ease with his doctor encouraging conversation about lesser known factors  that can aggravate an individual’s heath deterioration like stress, depression or any other personal issues.

For patients suffering from lifestyle disorders like diabetes, heart disease, their relationship with their doctor is a life-long one. For successful lifestyle management of diseases, it is extremely important that the doctor has a detailed understanding of the patient and his tendencies so as to overcome hurdles effectively. In addition to this, it is also important that the patient trusts the doctors advice to be able to implement his suggestions.

Speaking on the issue, Padma Shri Awardee, Dr. K K Aggarwal – Honorary Secretary General IMA and President HCFI, “When medical professionals try to create emphatic surroundings for their patients, the patient satisfaction levels and improvement rates are found to be much higher. The three Cs of violent communication are – condemn, criticise and complaint. By eliminating these while interacting with one’s patient, a harmonious relationship can be established. Hostility, aggression, anger all are linked to directly or indirectly violent communication. The chances of a patient adhering to the lifestyle changes directed by the doctor are much higher if communicated to in a emphatic manner as opposed to in a stern and angry fashion.”

Nowadays, as such there is no special training given to the doctors or to physicians, on how to effectively create positive relationships with their patients. On one side a doctor is expected to be non-emotional when it comes to their patients and on the other emphatic. A clear professional relationship is ideal based on trust, honesty and direct communication.

In addition to this, non-violent communication also helps strengthen the relationship between medical practitioners and their subordinates. Doctors must address and interact with their colleagues with respect and should not condemn or criticize them in public or behind their back. Similarly if a positive relationship is established with one’s juniors, nurses, hospital staff, better healthcare delivery is guarantee.