Emerging Themes in Physician-Patient Communication from the Physician’s Perspective
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2020
Abstract
Constructive healthcare involves both physicians and patients as actively engaged communicators. A body of research has focused on the patient perspective with physician-patient consultations. The present qualitative study considered communication between physicians and patients. Information gathered from physicians presented a spectrum of patient communication behaviors that physicians find problematic, as well as physicians’ concerns about physician communication competency and needed training. The seven emerging themes included: patient preparedness and integrity, patient compliance/unrealistic goals and comprehension, language barriers and interpretation resources, internet consultation influences, communication skills training, cultural barriers and competency, and listening, empathy and time. The themes identified invite further examination of patient advocacy, intercultural interactions, online resources, empathy and listening in physician-patient relations. Results indicate that physicians recognize gaps in communication competency within their patient interactions which further supports the need for training.
Publication Title
Carolinas Communication Annual
Volume
36
First Page
9
Last Page
23
Citation Information
Arnold, C.L., Stewart, M.C., and Holland, C. (2020). Emerging Themes in Physician-Patient Communication from the Physician’s Perspective. Carolinas Communication Annual. Vol.36