Physician — Patient Communication & Ethics

Understanding the Patient's Perspective - Description: This day delves into the core skills of active listening and empathy. You'll learn how to truly hear and understand the patient's concerns, feelings, and perspectives, going beyond just hearing the words. This includes learning about reflecting, clarifying, and summarizing the patient's concerns. - Resources/Activities: - Expected Outcomes: Develop an understanding of active listening techniques, differentiate between sympathy and empathy, and practice responding empathetically to others.

Clarity and Conciseness - Description: This day focuses on effective verbal communication techniques used in healthcare. You'll learn how to use clear, concise, and non-technical language to explain medical information, ask questions effectively, and provide instructions. Avoiding jargon will be a key focus. - Resources/Activities: - Expected Outcomes: Improve your ability to use clear and concise language, explain medical concepts effectively, and avoid medical jargon when communicating with patients.

The Language of Body - Description: This day examines the power of nonverbal communication in the physician-patient relationship. You'll learn about the impact of body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice, as well as cultural considerations. You will also learn about how these cues can impact the building of rapport, trust, and the patient's overall experience. - Resources/Activities: - Expected Outcomes: Recognize the importance of nonverbal communication, understand how different nonverbal cues can impact interactions, and analyze your own nonverbal communication.

Core Principles - Description: This day introduces the fundamental principles of medical ethics. You'll learn about key concepts such as autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. The focus will be on understanding the ethical framework that guides medical decision-making. - Resources/Activities: - Expected Outcomes: Understand the core ethical principles of medicine and how they relate to medical practice.

Respecting Patient Rights - Description: This day focuses on patient autonomy and informed consent. You'll learn about the importance of respecting patient choices, the process of obtaining informed consent, and how to handle situations where a patient may lack the capacity to make decisions. - Resources/Activities: - Expected Outcomes: Understand the concept of patient autonomy, the process of informed consent, and how to respect patient rights in medical decision-making.

Applying Skills and Reflecting - Description: This day focuses on applying the communication and ethical principles learned throughout the week to navigate challenging situations. You will discuss how to approach difficult conversations (e.g., delivering bad news, managing angry patients) and address common ethical dilemmas. The day will conclude with a reflection exercise. - Resources/Activities: - Expected Outcomes: Develop confidence in handling difficult conversations, apply ethical principles to real-world scenarios, and reflect on the week's learning to identify areas for growth.