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The Power of Words in Healthcare

October 28, 2024

The words we, as healthcare providers, use when communicating with patients can have a profound impact on their emotional well-being, treatment adherence, and overall health outcomes. At Omaha Physical Therapy Institute, we are aware of how our words can affect our patients and how we can use our communication with them as a tool in promoting a positive recovery.

What Do Our Words Do?

Build Trust and Rapport: Trust is fundamental to the healthcare provider-patient relationship. Clear, empathetic, and honest communication helps build rapport and trust, making patients more likely to share important information and adhere to treatment plans.

Influence Patient Perception and Behavior: The way information is conveyed can shape a patient’s perception of their condition and treatment. Positive, supportive language can boost a patient’s confidence and motivation, while negative or dismissive language can lead to fear, anxiety, and non-compliance.

Emotional Impact: Words can significantly affect a patient’s emotional state. Compassionate and empathetic communication can provide comfort and reassurance, while harsh or insensitive remarks can cause distress and harm.

Clarity and Understanding: Clear, jargon-free explanations help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and the steps they need to take for their health. Miscommunication or overly complex language can lead to confusion and mistakes.

Make sure that you choose healthcare providers that respect how impactful their words can be on your health! 

For a positive and supportive environment for physical therapy, call Omaha Physical Therapy Institute today!

References:

  1. Barker KL, Reid M, Minns Lowe CJ. Divided by a lack of common language? – A qualitative study exploring the use of language by health professionals treating back pain. BMCMusculoskelet Disord. 2009;10:123. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-10-1232.
  2. Biro D. The Language of Pain: Finding Words, Compassion, and Relief. New York, NY: W.W. Nor-ton; 2010
  3. Bossen JK, Hageman MG, King JD, Ring DC. Does rewording MRI reports improve patient under-standing and emotional response to a clinical re-port? Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2013;471:3637-3644.https://doi.org/10.1007/s11999-013-3100-x
  4. https://www.annfammed.org/content/11/6/527.long

 

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