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[PA-19] How to Talk to Your DoctorFrank Martin, MS, Baylor College of Medicine, Section of Health Services Research and EXCEED, Houston, TX
Problem: The effectiveness of doctor-patient communication skills during medical care interactions is known to affect health outcomes, patient satisfaction, and adherence. Further, the evidence suggests that doctors have poorer communication skills with minority patients. Effective communication between doctor and patient is an important and teachable area of concern, however, most education programs on doctor-patient communication are geared toward clinicians.
Methods: The Excellence Center to Eliminate Ethnic/Racial Disparities (EXCEED) at Baylor College of Medicine developed "How to Talk to Your Doctor," a community-based program on strategic doctor-patient communication. The 2-hour program is intended for small groups that can benefit from improved doctor-patient communication, such as elderly and low-English proficiency groups. The forums are held at several Houston area community-based sites (e.g., neighborhood centers, nutrition sites, and churches). Each group provides a site liaison (e.g., community health nurse) to facilitate success. Teaching methods include group discussion and role-play. Materials include a 20-page booklet. Physicians and health educators from EXCEED serve as volunteer trainers for the event. "How to Talk to Your Doctor" teaches participants to: 1) Recognize barriers to good doctor-patient communication; 2) Describe reasons for good doctor-patient communication; 3) Recognize examples of good communication traits; 4) Apply 3 tips for improving communication; 5) Demonstrate good doctor-patient communication techniques; and 6) Recall good doctor-patient communication strategies.
Results: A diverse population (n = 210) has participated in the program. Preliminary findings indicate that participants improve in knowledge, confidence, and perception of strategic doctor-patient communication.
Conclusion: "How to Talk to Your Doctor" is a well-received program that can be adapted for diverse audiences. The program's development and design offers insight on doctor-patient communication research and community-based education.
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Date: July 10-12, 2002
Location: Hilton Hotel & Towers, Washington, DC
Sponsor: U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health / Office of Public Health and Science
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