In Your Own Words: Toward a More Perfect Union of Patient Care and Education

Communication with patients and their families is a challenge for busy trainees. It is essential, however, that these trainees learn effective communication skills to create rapport with their patients, to add to their own satisfaction in caring for these patients and to use these conversations to constantly reassess their plans for treating their patients. Reflecting on the plans for and the outcomes of the care of their patients will also significantly enhance the educational value of the participation of trainees in this patient care, while simultaneously improving the care of both their current and their future patients. Finally, gaining facility in elaborating on their plans for and the delivery of patient care will help trainees become more articulate and thoughtful practitioners.