IMPROVING DOCTOR-PATIENT COMMUNICATION IN A PRIMARY CARE SETTING

Abstract

Background. The benefits of effective communication include good working relationships and increased patient satisfaction. Effective communication can improve patient understanding of treatment, improve compliance, and lead to better health. Aim. This literature review was conducted to gather knowledge and concepts related to doctor-patient communication and how they affect patient satisfaction and perceived quality of medical services in primary care. Method. Various electronic databases were used to search for articles, including PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus and Google Scholar. The headings of related articles were selected, which were narrowed down before annotating the articles concerned. Results. All the reviewed articles showed that the community was positively related to patient satisfaction and perceived quality of medical services; in both extended and developing countries. Communication creates trust that helps an independent physician to provide the best care. Conduct more visits, visit patients, encourage follow-up questions after visits, actively listen to patients and begin conversations, you can significantly improve the level of communication, level of trust and level of help. Joint decision making leads to better management and better chances of adherence to treatment. Conclusion. Evidence suggests that a patient-centered approach with effective communication skills and trust leads to better management and increased patient satisfaction. This is associated with better adherence to treatment, better health outcomes and better perception of the quality of medical services.

Keywords

• communication
• communication skills
• education