Linguistic Analysis of In-Office Dialogue Among Cardiologists, Primary Care Physicians, and Patients With Mixed Dyslipidemia

An in-office linguistic study was conducted to assess physician-patient discussions of mixed dyslipidemia. Naturally occurring interactions among 12 cardiologists, 12 primary care physicians, and 45 of their patients diagnosed with low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and being treated with prescription niacin extended-release were recorded. The participants were interviewed separately after the visit. The transcripts were analyzed using sociolinguistic techniques. Determined from the time at talk and the number of questions asked, the patients were moderately engaged in the visit conversations; however, most communication was physician-driven. Only 6% of the average visit was dedicated to disease education. Conversations about dyslipidemia were characterized by numerous laboratory values but rarely contained clear benchmarking or goal setting. In the postvisit interviews, the patients demonstrated a lack of understanding about their lipid levels and the next steps they should take. Both “HDL” [high-density lipoprotein] and “good cholesterol” were the most frequently mentioned aspects of dyslipidemia in these conversations; however, most physicians did not contextualize these components such that the patients were able to understand and retain the information after the visit. Although the conversations about treatment with niacin extended-release contained detailed information about how to manage the side effect of flushing, they lacked a clear description of this side effect. Also, missing from the dialogue was a balanced discussion of risks and benefits. Communication gaps were observed in the discussions regarding mixed dyslipidemia and its treatment with niacin extended-release. In conclusion, additional research is warranted to assess the efficacy of communication strategies to educate both physicians and patients about this condition and its treatment.