Doctor-patient relationships form the backbone of healthcare. Patients trust their doctors with their lives and well-being. They share intimate details about their health and expect doctors to provide the best possible care.

However, this relationship is not always perfect. Sometimes patients and doctors disagree. It can happen for various reasons, but one common reason is the communication style of the patient.

Assertive Patients in Healthcare

An assertive patient is someone who expresses their needs, preferences, and choices without trampling the rights of others. They are confident in their abilities to voice their concerns and advocate for themselves.

In a healthcare setting, assertive patients can be a good thing. They can help doctors understand their condition better and work collaboratively towards a treatment plan.

However, according to a recent study published in the Annals of Family Medicine, frequent assertive patients have a higher likelihood of disagreeing with their doctors.

The study surveyed over 700 patients in 15 primary care practices in the United States. It found that patients who frequently expressed their needs and made requests of their doctors often had negative experiences in the healthcare system.

Why do assertive patients disagree with their doctors?

Assertive patients may disagree with their doctors for various reasons. For instance, if a doctor suggests a particular treatment plan, an assertive patient may raise concerns about the side effects or ask for alternative options.

The goal is not to challenge the doctor’s expertise but to explore the available options and make an informed decision. However, some doctors may view this as a lack of trust in their abilities and become defensive. They may refuse to engage in a dialogue and present a take-it-or-leave-it approach.

Another reason why assertive patients may disagree with their doctors is that they feel their voices are not being heard.

According to the study, patients who reported a lack of shared decision making with their doctors had a higher likelihood of dissatisfaction and disagreements. Shared decision making is a process where clinicians and patients work together to make decisions about the patient’s care.

Patients can express their values, preferences, and concerns, and clinicians can offer their expertise to come up with a mutually agreeable plan.

The consequences of disagreements in healthcare

Disagreements between patients and doctors can have serious consequences. For instance, patients may refuse to follow the treatment plan or stop taking medication. This can lead to a delay in recovery, worsening of the condition, or even death.

Patients who disagree with their doctors may also suffer from anxiety, depression, and distrust in the healthcare system. Additionally, disagreements can lead to increased healthcare costs, as patients may seek care from multiple providers or undergo unnecessary tests and procedures.

Improving doctor-patient communication

Effective communication is crucial to building a strong doctor-patient relationship. Doctors and patients should work together to ensure that communication is respectful, empathetic, and clear.

Here are some tips for improving doctor-patient communication:.

1. Active listening

Doctors should listen actively to their patients. They should pay attention to the patient’s concerns and ask questions to clarify their understanding. Active listening shows patients that their voices are being heard and valued.

2. Encourage participation

Doctors should encourage patients to participate actively in their care. They can ask patients about their goals, values, and preferences and work collaboratively to make decisions.

Shared decision making can help patients feel empowered and engaged in their care.

3. Use clear language

Doctors should use clear and simple language when communicating with patients. Medical jargon can be confusing and overwhelming for patients. Doctors should avoid using technical terms and always explain what they mean.

4. Be empathetic

Doctors should show empathy towards their patients. They should acknowledge the patient’s emotions and show understanding. Telling a patient that you understand how they feel can go a long way in building trust and rapport.

Conclusion

In conclusion, frequent assertive patients have a higher likelihood of disagreeing with their doctors. Disagreements can lead to negative consequences for the patient, including delayed recovery and increased healthcare costs.

However, effective communication between patients and doctors can go a long way in preventing disagreements. Doctors should listen actively, encourage patient participation, use clear language, and show empathy towards their patients. By working collaboratively, doctors and patients can build strong relationships based on trust and respect.