We all want technology to improve communication between doctors and patients. We fantasize that social tools will open doors and bridge the expanding divide between docs and patients.
I’m wondering if it’s a case of unicorns and rainbows. Fancy new tools to do the old thing in a less effective way.
I’m guessing that if Facebook was the old platform for doctor-patient dialog and the telephone was invented this year, everyone would be clamoring to use the phone (“Dude, this is amazing…you can hear them talk”)
I like the telephone. Written copy misses intonation, timing, pitch and all the other rich elements of human speech. Subtle changes in a parents voice tell me if I’ve made my point and exactly how I need to proceed. Unspoken words on a screen are so one dimensional.
Of course email has a tightly defined place in patient communication. And real-time social interaction between patient and clinic will evolve to have a clear role in patient care. But for now the phone remains one of the most effective tools for helping doctor and patient really understand one another.
Image via Cemagraphics
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Dr. V,
How do you think video chat plays into communication? Do you see it as a different experience for patient/doctor than voice chat? How do you think the coming age of ubiquitous video chat will impact doctor/patient interactions?
Absolutely. Adds to voice. Facial expressions are huge.
I take this means it is you calling them back then? Only my primary doc calls me herself. For the rest it’s the nurse or NP. YMMV depending on who it is! Most are amazing but there have been times when I know full well important pieces are lost in translation! Good on you for using the phone to connect!
Due to are volume our staff call back normals; I discuss when there are problems or need a change in plan.
I never liked the telephone, so the new tools are perfect for me.
I think more ways to communicate with patients will be always welcome. There´s no need to use them all, just what makes you feel comfortable. But nowadays smarthphones are not used as phones so, do we evolve or die ?
With written communication, sometimes the reader assumes the tone and pitch of the sender that leads to misunderstanding. The most effective way to deliver a message is through facial expression, body language and voice tone and pitch. Socials are very convenient.
Yes. Great example is Twitter. My dry voice is often misunderstood. Thanks for chiming in.
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