The Art of Healing Through Effective Communication

Key Pointers:

1. Patient-Centered Interviewing – Master active listening, open-ended questions, and creating safe spaces for patients to share sensitive information.
2. Breaking Bad News – Learn structured approaches like SPIKES protocol for delivering difficult information with compassion and support.
3. Informed Consent Discussions – Explain procedures in lay terms, discuss risks and benefits clearly, ensure understanding, and document appropriately.
4. Cross-Cultural Communication – Navigate India’s diversity with sensitivity, using interpreters effectively and respecting cultural beliefs.
5. Dealing with Difficult Conversations – Handle angry patients, address complaints professionally, manage expectations, and de-escalate conflicts.
6. Multidisciplinary Team Communication – Collaborate effectively through clear handovers, respectful interactions, and shared decision-making.
7. Medical Documentation – Write clear, legally sound medical records, documenting informed consent and maintaining confidentiality.
8. Telephone Consultations – Master remote communication including structured history-taking, safety-netting, and proper documentation.
9. Explaining Diagnoses & Treatment Plans – Translate complex information into understandable language using analogies and the teach-back method.
10. Professional Boundaries & Ethics – Maintain appropriate relationships, handle gifts, manage social media, and uphold professional conduct.