As a student dentist and doctor, I have come to realize the importance of effective communication in providing quality patient care. It is not enough for me to simply possess the knowledge and skills required for medical procedures; I must also be able to effectively communicate with my patients in order to understand their needs, address their concerns, and provide them with the best possible care.
The Importance of Listening
One aspect of communication that I have been working on improving is my ability to listen attentively. In the past, I may have been too focused on performing medical procedures or sharing my own expertise that I neglected to truly listen to what my patients were saying. However, through reflection and self-awareness, I now understand that listening plays a crucial role in building trust and rapport with patients.
When a patient expresses their concerns or fears about a procedure or treatment plan, it is important for me as a healthcare provider to actively listen without interrupting or dismissing their feelings. By doing so, not only am I able to gain valuable insight into their perspective but also demonstrate empathy towards them.
Effective Verbal Communication
In addition to listening attentively, being able to express myself clearly through verbal communication is essential in providing optimal patient care. As someone who tends toward shyness and quietness around people who wish engage in conversation outside of medicine-related matters,I often find it challenging trying convey information effectively using words alone.However,I acknowledge this as an area where improvement can greatly enhance both mineandmypatient'sexperience during our interactions.I believe by practicing active engagementin conversationsoutsideofmedicalsettings,and gradually pushing myself beyondmycomfort zoneI willbecome more confidentand articulate whencommunicatingwithpatients.The goalis topromotea comfortableenvironmentfor dialoguewheremyvoicecanbeheardand understoodby allthose undermysupervisionorcare.