Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
To effectively communicate a diagnosis of a chronic condition and ensure patient understanding and engagement, follow these key steps:
- Create a supportive environment: Ensure privacy and a conducive setting for discussion, respecting the patient's comfort and cultural context NICE CG138.
- Use clear, jargon-free language: Avoid medical jargon, use words the patient understands, define unfamiliar terms, and confirm understanding by asking questions NICE CG138.
- Maximise patient participation: Use open-ended questions to encourage discussion and position yourself at the patient’s level to build rapport NICE CG138.
- Tailor communication methods: Identify and use the patient’s preferred communication style, including interpreters or communication aids if needed NICE CG138.
- Chunk information and check understanding: Break down information into manageable parts and use techniques like teach back, where the patient repeats information in their own words to confirm comprehension NICE NG197.
- Provide both oral and written information: Give accessible, evidence-based, and tailored information about the condition, treatment options, and care pathways, including copies of letters where appropriate NICE CG138.
- Involve family or carers if the patient agrees: Clarify at the outset whether the patient wants family or carers involved in discussions and decision-making, and share information accordingly NICE CG138.
- Support self-management and shared decision making: Encourage active patient participation in care planning, provide information on self-care, and use shared decision making to align treatment with patient values and preferences NICE CG138,NICE NG197.
- Offer ongoing support and resources: Advise on reliable sources of information and support groups, and ensure patients know who to contact for help or emergencies NICE CG138.