AETCOM Module 1.4

1. Module 1.4: The foundations
of communication
Dr. Naushi Mujeeb
Professor, Dept of Physiology

2. • This module provides students with an introduction to doctor-
patient communication.
• Communication is a fundamental prerequisite in the medical
profession.
• Competency addressed-
• The student should be able to:
• Demonstrate ability to communicate to patients in a patient,
respectful, nonthreatening, non- judgmental and empathetic manner.
• A strong, therapeutic, and effective relationship is the sine qua non of
physician—patient communication

3. • The Kalamazoo consensus statement provides a working model of
teaching communication skills and may be used to impart
communication skills.
• In Kalamazoo, Michigan, Conference was conducted for three days on
Physician—Patient Communication in Medical Education.
• The aim of this invitational conference was to identify and specifically
articulate ways to facilitate communication teaching, assessment, and
evaluation.
• Effective listening, verbal and nonverbal communication and creating
respect in patient encounters would be the skills that is needed in this
profession.

4. • The five ‘A’s elements of behaviour change model may also be used.
• 5 A’s- Ask, Advise, Agree, Assist, Arrange
• The 5As are a framework for clinicians to ASK about current
behavior, ADVISE a change, ASSESS willingness to change
and willingness to enroll in a community program supporting
physical activity, ASSIST with goal-setting and ARRANGE
follow-up.

5. • Communication-
• Open the Discussion-
• Allow the patient to complete his or her opening statement
statement
• Elicit the patient's full set of concerns
• Establish/maintain a personal connection

6. • Gather Information
• Use open-ended and closed-ended questions appropriately.
appropriately.
• Structure, clarify, and summarize information.
• Actively listen using nonverbal (e.g., eye contact) and verbal
verbal (e.g., words of encouragement) techniques.

7. • Understand the Patient's Perspective-
• Explore contextual factors (e.g., family, culture, gender, age,
socioeconomic status, spirituality)
• Explore beliefs, concerns, and expectations about health and
and illness
• Acknowledge and respond to the patient's ideas, feelings, and
and values

8. • Share Information-
• Use language the patient can understand
• Check for understanding
• Encourage questions

9. • Reach Agreement on Problems and Plans-
• Encourage the patient to participate in decisions to the extent
extent he or she desires
• Check the patient's willingness and ability to follow the plan
plan
• Identify and enlist resources and supports

10. • Provide Closure-
• Ask whether the patient has other issues or concerns
• Summarize and affirm agreement with the plan of action
• Discuss follow-up (e.g., next visit, plan for unexpected outcomes
outcomes

11. • END