Create positive relationships with your patients it is a key component in the general care experience. As in any relationship, both parties must compromise to achieve its success.
So here are 10 ways you can build positive relationships with your patients.
1. Take the time to get to know the patients.
First of all, no patient likes to feel rushed to an appointment. A big part of making sure a patient is comfortable is addressing him or her as an individual, rather than a medical condition. While asking someone questions, you should try to make it more of a discussion than a strict question-and-answer session.
Also, presentations are key, so don’t forget to introduce yourself and remember your patients’ names. Whenever you can, address them by their first name.
2. Prepare for appointments.
It is good practice to review patient records before seeing them in person. It can be a waste of time asking for information that is already in your files. Also, if you comment on the reason for their last visit, you will appear observant and interested in the individual needs of the patient.
3. Always listen.
Sometimes patients just need someone to listen to their concerns or fears. This can help spark discussions about your options, plan of care, and whether you need to seek follow-up appointments with other specialists. Doctors rarely have time to talk much. So a patient may be very grateful if you take a few extra minutes to listen and provide helpful guidance.
4. Anticipate what they need.
By talking to your patients, you can anticipate what they need even before they ask. For example, if you know someone got the flu last year, suggest getting a flu shot early in the season. Your patients will be grateful that you are caring for them.
5. Maintain a consistent composure.
Dealing with doctor’s offices, hospitals, and illness is stressful. A patient needs a healthcare provider to make him appear calm and reassuring. It’s even okay to smile a little to make your patients feel optimistic.
6. Reach out to other people who can help you.
If a patient needs help with something that you cannot provide, transfer their care to someone else. Make sure you take the time to introduce your patient to the other doctors. This can help the patient feel comfortable with the other person, and they are more likely to trust him or her if they speak well of the person.
7. Provide the proper education.
If you are not an expert on a certain topic and your patient does not require the help of a medical specialist, you can always direct them to trusted resources to help them learn more about the condition.
8. Follow-up.
One of the most thoughtful things you can do is keep track of your patients. Even if they see you because they have a cold, calling them two days later to check in can be reassuring.
This is an especially good gesture after a person has surgery or an outpatient procedure. It can also prompt them to address any minor side effects they’re feeling that they might not otherwise be able to do.
Related Notes:
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