Page 32 - 2021 Risk Reduction Series - Communication Part Two
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SVMIC Risk Reduction Series: Communication
Due to the complexity of this subject and the potential
ramifications, medical practices should seek advice of corporate
counsel when establishing a policy on the recording of patient
encounters. The decision has legal consequences and may
generate strong feelings that will likely vary from provider to
provider and certainly from practice to practice. It should be
thoroughly vetted before adopted.
Electronic Health Records
Electronic health records can present a real challenge with
building rapport with patients. Software Advice, a website that
reviews medical software, recently did a survey on how to
improve doctor-patient interactions in the EMR era. They listed
the top seven tips received on maintaining quality relationships:
6
1. Position your computer between you and the patient:
Face the patient during interactions. Take the time to plan
where your equipment will go to preserve face-to-face
communication.
2. Invest in mobility: Whether it’s a small rolling desk, small
tablets, or other lightweight tools, choose equipment
that helps you move around. A laptop can be worth the
investment.
3. Delegate as much as possible: The objective is to interact
with the patient as much as possible. Have staff members
enter the medical history, medications, prior procedures,
etc. prior to the patient’s visit so you don’t have to during
the appointment.
6 https://www.healthworkscollective.com/doctor-patient-relationship-7-ways-maintain-patient-
interaction-age-ehr/
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