Patient-Provider Communication: the Rise of Patient Engagement

ObjectivesTo describe the changing dynamics of patient-provider communication with proposals for optimizing this important relationship.Data SourcesCurrent research, national programs and guidelines from the National Cancer Institute, the Commission on Cancer, the Institute of Medicine, and the Oncology Nursing Society.ConclusionThere are important opportunities to apply evidence-based strategies to optimize patient-provider communication that will result in improved health outcomes.Implications for Nursing PracticeOncology nurses across all areas of practice, including clinical care, research, and education, can play a significant role in achieving the goal of positive health outcomes by addressing challenges that inhibit effective patient-provider communication.