Title: Approaches to enhancing communication between healthcare providers and recipients

Authors: Muhsine Itir Ozgen; Tojo Thatchenkery

Addresses: College of Social Sciences and Humanities, Koc University, Rumeli Feneri Yolu, Ogrenci Dekanligi, B331, 34450 Sariyer Istanbul, Turkey ' School of Public Policy, George Mason University, Founders Hall 608, 3351 Farfax Drive, MS 3B1, Arlington, VA, 22201, USA

Abstract: In an effort to improve communication between doctors and patients, doctors in one of the largest research and training hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey were invited to participate in a customised communication training programme and its effectiveness was assessed using surveys. A group of pharmaceutical executives and doctors were interviewed a year later to explore if the doctor-patient communication had indeed improved. Results indicated that the training program had a positive impact on providing doctors with tools and perspectives in interacting with patients with more empathy and understanding. At the same time, external factors such as over-crowding and misuse of the precious research facilities at the hospital for routine healthcare needs of the patients from far off areas came in the way of providing true patient care to those with serious medical needs. More education and communication is needed for encouraging patients to utilise local hospitals for routine needs.

Keywords: doctor-patient relationship; effective communication; empathy; active listening; organisational development; management training.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHRDM.2017.085261

International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management, 2017 Vol.17 No.1/2, pp.57 - 72

Received: 03 Mar 2016
Accepted: 01 Jun 2016
Published online: 19 Jul 2017 *

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