Page 15 - 2021 Risk Reduction Series - Communication Part One

SVMIC Risk Reduction Series: Communication

A patient’s perception of the quality of care he or she receives

is based largely on the interpersonal skills of the physician
and staff. This is because most patients do not understand

the practice of medicine and the complexities involved in his
or her treatment may leave them confused. Many decades of

research link poor communication to malpractice lawsuits.
When a patient perceives that the provided medical treatment

is good, he or she is satisfied and less likely to sue in the event
of an adverse outcome. Crucial then, to malpractice avoidance,

is the establishment and maintenance of good patient rapport.
Rapport is established by building trust and creating good first

impressions, and communication skills are crucial to achieve
patient engagement.

Although the following list is extensive, it serves as a guide

leading to more effective communication and positive patient
perceptions:

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