Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
3815671 Patient Education and Counseling 2006 7 Pages PDF
Abstract

ObjectiveTo explore limitations of current communication theory by considering different perspectives of researchers, clinicians, patients and teachers of communication.MethodTheory development based on limitations of the current communication research literature due to inconsistencies between patient reports and observed communication behavior.ResultsWhile researchers focus on the mechanics and techniques of communication, patients seek relationships in which they experience trust, the right amount of autonomy, caring, and expertise. Patients’, physicians’, and communication experts’ perspectives do not always define the same problems and often point to different solutions.ConclusionsIn addition to studying clinician behaviors and patient perceptions of care, communication research should focus on five additional factors: what patients notice, want and need, and how their perspectives differ from those of physicians and researchers; the context, including illness severity and type and family influences; how complex health systems facilitate and impede communication; patients’ influences on physician communication behavior; and habits of mind that promote attentive care.

Related Topics
Health Sciences Medicine and Dentistry Medicine and Dentistry (General)
Authors
,