Numerous studies indicate that a large proportion of patients are dissatisfied with their relationship with healthcare professionals. The source of this dissatisfaction is rarely the incompetence of the latter. More often it is a lack of skill in establishing a psychological rapport with patients. The authors of this book do not intend to criticise or blame either health professionals or non-professionals. For they acknowledge that also only a few parents, teachers, lawyers, bosses, salespeople and representatives of other social groups are able to communicate effectively with others. A certain way of talking, therefore, can really have a therapeutic value and help people to deal constructively with their own negative emotions, to find solutions to their problems and to submit their lives to self-control. These helping skills can be particularly useful for anyone dealing with patients. People who have to deal with patients on a professional basis will benefit from this book.
dealing with the sick, i.e. doctors and medical staff in the broadest sense - nurses, psychologists and hospital chaplains, social carers - as well as all those who care for the sick out of the need of the heart, i.e. volunteers in hospitals and hospices, carers caring for the sick at home, their spouses, family and friends. No clinician who truly cares for patients can afford to overlook this excellent book. It draws on both research findings and [the authors'] personal experience to define the major barriers to doctor-patient communication. No other book I have read or heard of has accomplished even partially something similar.
T. George Harris, founder and publisher of American Health and Psychology Today magazines
I find the book very interesting and useful
It is an extremely useful position for doctors and nurses as well as for the staff teaching in medical colleges. This is because it deviates from commonly accepted patterns of thinking and points to paths hitherto undervalued in the education of health care professionals. Its style and structure make it accessible to to a wide readership, Prof. Dr. Wojciech Pędich, MD
The authors have written a practical, deeply sensitive and wise book describing in a simple, methodologically structured way, among other things, active, emotionally involved listening and other effective interpersonal communication techniques to strengthen the doctor-patient relationship.
Dr. Mack Lipkin, Jr President of the American Academy on Physician & Patient New York University Medical Center
An accessibly written compendium on communication with the patient. The book will fill with new energy those healthcare professionals who are already convinced of the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and inspire those who are still looking for ways to work more closely with the patient.