The doctor-patient relationship has always been one of the pillars of healthcare, but this pillar has undergone profound and important changes in recent years. In the 1960s, the doctor’s instructions were unquestionable for the patient, who was only inform of his condition through the consultation. Today, however, patients take a much more active approach in caring for their own health, moving into a collaborative relationship with the patient.
In this post we analyze the different types of communication in the doctor-patient relationship that we can find today.
Types of doctor patient communication
Strongly directive approach
Sometimes there is little uncertainty about the best course of treatment and the doctor feels justifi in giving very clear direction. There are also times when phone leads for sale the patient prefers to be told what to do. Sometimes the burden of having to weigh the different options is too great, especially when the consequences can be serious or one feels too bad.
One of the problems with taking a very directive approach is that if the treatment does not work as expected or its side effects are very unpleasant, the patient may feel disappointed or at least unprepar for the consequences.
Paternalistic approach
As its name indicates, in this type of relationship the doctor takes on an almost paternal role, with the values of authority and protection link to this concept. The doctor is clear about the direction of treatment but at the same time is understanding and kind when fac with the patient’s doubts. When this type of relationship is manag appropriately, the patient feels more protect in the face of a reality that is difficult to face.
Self directed or consumerist approach
Negotiating approach
In this style of consultation, both the doctor and the patient can take the lead in the relationship, discussing different treatment options and trying to convince each other of their points of view. When handled well, negotiation can defuse potential conflicts between both parties.
Supportive approach
In this type of relationship, it is clear that the patient or caregiver must make a decision, but health professionals get involv to make them see that they are not alone. Health care decisions that involve value-bas choices, or those that involve the health of other people, can be handl with this type of approach.
This approach is at the opposite extreme from paternalism. Patients who take a self-directed approach take much greater responsibility for their health decisions than in any of the BO Leads other approaches mentioned above. This approach involves considerable patient commitment and is common in life-threatening illnesses.
There is no type of communication that can be taken as standard. The ideal approach will depend on each specific case.