The Patient’s and Patient Family’s Perspective

Abstract

Open and honest communication between the healthcare provider and the patient is the backbone of patient/family expectations. The patients, family members and their advocates expect a full explanation and understanding of their treatment options and outcomes. Cases are often discussed in the presence of the patient among other healthcare providers without involving the patient. This leads to a disconnection in the patient’s involvement in their own care. By not actively including patients and or their representatives in conversations about their treatment, providers fail to confirm that patients understand the course of treatment, and fail to confirm that the course of treatment is in fact the treatment the patient would choose if fully informed. A rift develops between the patient and the health care system. Involving the patient, family members or advocate in the decision-making conversations and eventual signing of an informed consent form are vital tools for both patient and provider. Understanding the patients’ point of view is essential in fulfilling expectations in health care. The provider should always be thinking “never talk about me without me” when discussing treatment options, complications or expectations. While neither surgeon nor patient welcomes a poor outcome, the tragedy of a poor outcome is amplified when the outcome is a surprise to the patient and patient’s family. It is no wonder that the largest indicator of malpractice suits stem from a surprise outcome or course of events. By using effective and active communication, patients and physicians can collaborate to build a safer healthcare team, and a team that meets its customers’ expectations.