How can you prevent miscommunication with physicians?

1 Know your role

Understanding your role and scope of practice is essential to communicate clearly and confidently with physicians. You should know your responsibilities, limitations, and expectations, as well as the physicians' preferences, protocols, and feedback. You should also respect the physicians' role and authority, and avoid challenging or undermining them in front of patients or colleagues. If you have any questions or concerns about your role, ask for clarification or guidance from your supervisor or mentor.

2 Use clear and concise language

When communicating with physicians, you should use clear and concise language that avoids ambiguity, jargon, or slang. You should also use standard terminology, abbreviations, and formats that are familiar and consistent with the physicians. For example, you can use the SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) method to structure your verbal or written reports, requests, or updates to physicians. You should also check for understanding, repeat or summarize key points, and confirm actions or decisions.

3 Choose the appropriate channel

Choosing the appropriate channel of communication with physicians depends on the urgency, complexity, and sensitivity of the message. You should use the most direct and reliable channel that suits the situation and the physician's availability. For example, you can use face-to-face or phone communication for urgent or critical issues, email or text for non-urgent or routine matters, and written documentation for formal or legal purposes. You should also follow the established protocols and policies for using different channels of communication with physicians.

4 Be respectful and professional

Being respectful and professional with physicians can help you build rapport, trust, and collaboration. You should use polite and courteous language, tone, and body language when communicating with physicians. You should also acknowledge their expertise, experience, and perspective, and express appreciation for their support or feedback. You should avoid interrupting, arguing, or criticizing physicians, especially in front of patients or colleagues. If you have a disagreement or conflict with a physician, you should address it privately and constructively.

5 Seek feedback and improvement

Seeking feedback and improvement from physicians can help you enhance your communication skills and performance. You should ask for constructive feedback from physicians on your communication style, content, and frequency, and be open to their suggestions or corrections. You should also reflect on your communication strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas for improvement. You can also seek opportunities for learning and development, such as attending workshops, courses, or mentoring programs on communication skills.

6 Use technology wisely

Technology can be a useful tool to facilitate communication with physicians, but it can also pose some challenges and risks. You should use technology wisely and responsibly when communicating with physicians, and follow the best practices and standards for using electronic health records, telehealth, or mobile devices. You should also ensure the security, privacy, and accuracy of the information you share with physicians, and avoid using technology for personal or inappropriate purposes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?