Verbal Patient Communication Strategies

Written Patient Communication Strategies

Outline the discussion.  Limit new information to a few necessary points. Divide up long lists.

Personalize by writing patient’s name on any materials. 

Go over the materials with the patient.

Focus on behaviors and actions

Underline important, relevant parts of the materials.

Present context with review of recent tests, discussions, etc. and their purposes. Then provide new information.

Select materials that are relevant/have shard characteristics with the patient (i.e. are culturally relevant)

Use examples such as testimonials, visual aids, brochures, pictures

Refer to illustrations to emphasize the written materials

Ask the patient for feedback. 

Preface the conversation by saying, “I need to make sure I have shared with you all of the key points.  Will you please tell me what you heard about . . . ”

“…when you should take your medications

“….what you understand to be your choices.”

“…what your illness is and what we have agreed upon as a treatment plan?

Avoid yes/no questions, such as, “Do you understand?”

Ask the patient for feedback. 

Preface the conversation by saying, “I need to make sure I have shared with you all of the key points.  Will you please tell me what you heard about . . . "

“…when you should take your medication"     

“….what you understand to be your choices.”

“…what your illness is and what we have agreed upon as a treatment plan?”

 Avoid yes/no questions, such as, “Do you understand?”