PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The ability to communicate well is one of the most important skills that companies look for when they hire employees, and that is also true for physicians.
In the world of physician education, the most valuable skills are lifelong learning and empathy for others, but close behind is the ability to communicate; to listen and explain.
Everything from medications and allergies to family health history are the core of the doctor-patient relationship.
Unfortunately, this is a skill that is not a major factor when many future physicians are selected to be accepted into medical school. A new report by American Family Physician found that 70% of patients follow a doctor’s instructions when explained well, but fewer than 50% when communicated poorly.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.