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While the care a patient receives is important, the doctor-patient relationship is important too. In fact, it’s a huge component of the level of care given to the patient. Here are a few tips for improving doctor-patient relationships.

Eliminate Distractions

In the modern age of technology, both doctors and patients are easily distracted by the use of phones and computers during visits. To enhance the quality of the short visiting times that you have with your patients, show them that they have your full attention, free of distraction. They should also do the same for you. If you use technology for record keeping, let the patient know at the start of the visit to ensure that they don’t get the impression that you’re ignoring them. Don’t forget, technology can still be helpful in exchanging information.

Be an Active Listener

Try repeating what the patient has told you and be sure you have all the information you need. Even small details can make a difference in diagnosing a problem. Keep in mind all of your non verbal cues with your body language and tone of voice. You should display empathy with your responses and ask about the patient’s feelings and behaviors. Patients will often be impacted the most through how understanding you are of their situation, and will rate their experience based on this. Communication and trust are key in winning the patient over.

Educate Your Patient About Treatment Options

Remember that the patient usually doesn’t have a full understanding of the treatment process and is often unaware of all the details that go into the decision making process. Walk them through it step-by-step and inform all the stake-holders of the same information. It can be easy to forget that the patient has a limited knowledge on subjects that physicians are experts in. Patients can often be mistaken about various issues and need some clarification as they learn more about them.

Discuss Unhealthy Behaviors and Choices

Many physicians are hesitant to bring up the subject of unhealthy behaviors with their patients. Difficult patients are often resistant to change (ex: refusal to quit smoking). Allow them to describe why they don’t want to change and then discuss the positives of changing rather than focusing on the negatives of continuing the habit. Patients will be more open when they feel like they aren’t being judged for their choices. The strongest relationships come from the bonds of trust and understanding.

Follow Up

Following up with a patient after the appointment is a highly effective way to show the patient that you care about their well-being and shows your commitment to their recovery. This will also encourage the patient to show up for the next appointment. You might want to consider directly advising them to schedule another appointment or to give you a call at a certain time. They’ll appreciate that you took the time out of your day to check in with them.

Work in an Environment That Suits You

Physicians are less likely to stay with a practice where they feel a poor cultural fit or feel that the work style isn’t fulfilling. Different practices look for specific qualities in a new hire and meeting these qualities will likely improve the service you provide. There are a multitude of factors that you should consider before joining a new practice. It’s important to find a practice that you feel you belong in and can treat patients the most efficiently in.

At Enterprise Medical Recruiting, we ensure that each candidate is a good fit for a position before choosing to send them to an employer. We believe in placing physicians in positions that they will stay in for the long-run, which will save time and money that can be spent treating patients and building top quality doctor-patient relationships. Contact one of our specialty recruiters today to see how we can help you in your job search!