Take time out to listen to patients: IMA tells doctors

IMA launches ‘Sun toh lo’ drive to improve patient-doctor relations

Positive step: The Association noted that when doctors listen to their patients, they feel more cared for. File Photo: AFP

: “A doctor’s ability to listen, understand and empathise with patients has profound implications on clinical outcomes,’’ noted the Indian Medical Association (IMA) as it inaugurated its first national-level campaign called “Sun toh lo”, which aims at improving patient-doctor interactions.

“ In a hospital or a clinical setting, doctors are inundated with information. This overwhelming burden of data can make it an uphill task to listen to patients keenly,’’ said IMA president Dr. K.K Aggarwal.

“Studies centred on patient-doctor communication have found that physicians wait for around 18 seconds before interrupting a patient’s narrative,” read a statement issued by the Association.

First few minutes crucial

“Moreover, patients misunderstood directions in over 60% cases. This highlights the need to inculcate listening skills in the Indian medical professional community. It is understandable that with the high-pressure environment of the hospital, paying so much attention to every patient is not an easy task. However, intently listening to a patient for the first few minutes can spare him/her subsequent visits to the hospital,” added Dr. Aggarwal.

The Association has further noted that sound listening skills can help build the tone of a patient-doctor interaction.

“When doctors listen to their patients, they feel more cared for. A patient may give unnecessary narrative, but if you listen properly, you can steer the conversation to gain fruitful information,’’ said IMA.

Prevention of diseases

The Association has also introduced the importance of social living and the profound impact on the overall health outcomes of the society.

“ Several infectious diseases are transferred silently across communities. If neighbours collectively work on a plan of action, a majority of this burden can be lifted. For instance, dengue and malaria spread across a 50-meter radius, and maintaining cleanliness at home is not enough towards disease prevention. However, if people maintain clean surroundings, care for senior citizens and sick people, and spread awareness about social and health issues, then major improvements will be seen,’’ said the Association.