The Masterclass on Essential Clinical Communication Skills held on 12th May was an exceptional event, drawing a large and diverse global audience. The session delved into the pressing issue of the doctor-patient relationship, which is currently facing significant challenges. Trust in healthcare professionals is in need of serious restoration, and there is a prevalent loss of faith in doctors among the public. Instances of doctors being physically and mentally harmed by patients’ friends and families in India have further exacerbated this issue, highlighting the urgency of addressing the breakdown in trust and communication.
The focus of our discussion wasn’t just on the problems but also on potential solutions. It emphasized the importance of equipping doctors with Excellent Clinical Communication Skills through experiential learning, providing them with the tools to effectively navigate challenging situations. The scarcity of proper teaching in this vital area, whether from untrained teachers or seniors who never received formal training, was also brought to light.
During the Masterclass, we highlighted cases where Transparent Clinical Communication Skills made a significant difference in how patients perceived their conditions or empowered them to actively participate in decisions regarding their treatment in collaboration with their doctors. As we prepare for the upcoming First Ever Clinical Communication Skills Workshops in Kolkata, with Essential workshops on 28th July and Advanced workshops on 3rd-4th August, we are considering how to best address the vast spectrum of Clinical Communication skills and their relevance in today’s healthcare landscape.
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One response to “Lessons learned”
Excellent work! Clinical Communication is the way forward to repair and polish the relationship with patients and reduce scepticism among the public about healthcare professionals. Look forward to more such webinars and definitely the face-to-face events in Kolkata.