What are effective strategies for managing conflict with physicians?

1 Identify the source of conflict

Before you engage in a conflict with a physician, try to understand the root cause of the disagreement. Is it a matter of facts, values, goals, or methods? Is it a personal or professional issue? Is it based on evidence, experience, or opinion? By identifying the source of conflict , you can clarify your own position and perspective, as well as acknowledge the other party's point of view. This can help you avoid assumptions, biases, and emotional reactions that may escalate the conflict.

2 Choose the right time and place

Timing and location are important factors for managing conflict with physicians. You want to avoid interrupting, distracting, or embarrassing them in front of other staff, patients, or family members. You also want to avoid confronting them when they are busy, tired, or stressed. Instead, look for a private and quiet space where you can talk calmly and respectfully. You may also want to schedule a meeting in advance, or ask for their permission to discuss the issue at a convenient time.

3 Use effective communication skills

Communication is the key to resolving conflict with physicians. You need to use skills such as active listening, paraphrasing, questioning, and feedback to express your concerns and understand their perspective. You also need to use assertive, not aggressive or passive, language to state your position and needs. For example, you can use "I" statements, such as "I feel concerned about the patient's condition" or "I need more information about the treatment plan", rather than blaming or accusing the physician. You can also use positive and respectful words, such as "please", "thank you", "I appreciate", or "I respect", to show your professionalism and courtesy.

4 Focus on the patient's best interest

The ultimate goal of managing conflict with physicians is to ensure the patient's best interest. You need to remind yourself and the physician that you are both on the same team, working for the same purpose: to provide quality care and satisfaction to the patient. You need to avoid personalizing the conflict or making it a power struggle. You need to emphasize the common ground and the shared values that you have with the physician. You need to propose solutions that are based on the patient's preferences, rights, and goals, as well as the best available evidence and standards of practice.

6 Learn from the experience

Conflict with physicians can be a learning opportunity for you as a patient advocate. You can use the experience to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, your values and beliefs, and your goals and expectations. You can use the experience to improve your skills and knowledge, your relationships and networks, and your confidence and resilience. You can use the experience to grow as a professional and as a person.

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?