Clinician Tip o' the Month - March 2024

When you're meeting a patient for the first time, establishing a connection from the start is key to building trust and setting the stage for an ongoing clinician/patient relationship. A simple, yet effective, way to lay the foundation is to inquire about their previous healthcare experiences. For instance, you might ask your patient where they received care before coming to you. This question not only shows your interest in their healthcare journey but also opens the door to understanding their past medical relationships.

In a recent example, a Valley clinician was seeing a patient whose primary care provider moved away, leaving them disappointed due to the loss of a valued connection. The clinician asked what made their experience with their previous clinician so positive, to gather insights into their patient-care provider relationship, so that they could incorporate those aspects into their interactions with the patient. This method was highly appreciated by the new patient, making them feel heard, respected, and valued.

An approach like this not only helps in making the patient feel welcome and understood but also sets a positive tone for future interactions. Remember, a patient who feels listened to is more likely to engage in their care, trust their healthcare provider, and follow through with medical advice.