Nowadays, patients prefer those doctors who let them speak their hearts out and possess the necessary skills to talk and communicate.
Develop soft skills
Soft skills are known as people skills which can affect communication and interaction with others. They may be harder to develop than hard skills, but they can hugely impact one’s business and reputation once developed. Medical research suggests that a patients' satisfaction is directly proportional to the attention, care, and honest communication they receive from the provider. Here are some suggestions that you can incorporate into your daily practice:
Be an active listener
The important aspect of communication is listening. Patients prefer doctors who let them talk and listen with attention instead of focusing on what they would like to hear. Moreover, the patient always wants to feel included in the treatment plan, and they have a million ideas about it. Even if you hear some absurd suggestions, listen with great focus and appreciate them for their recommendations.
A good start
Always start with a nice greeting and a smile. First impressions matter a lot, and they set the tone for the next appointments. First, introduce yourself and your staff, call the patient by name, maintain eye contact, ask for their consent before the examination, and explain the treatment in simple language. Maintain transparency while discussing fees and be as accommodating as you can be. Finally, answer any last-minute questions and confirm the treatment plan or follow-up.
Initiate small talk
To make your patients feel comfortable and relaxed, try talking to them about their daily routine. This is particularly helpful in avoiding an awkward silence when you’re waiting for your assistant to mix the impression material or the local anaesthetic to kick in. Additionally, you can ask them about their weekend and plans for the day. Inquire about their job and interests. You might even stumble upon an interesting topic.
Be empathetic towards difficult patients
When difficult situations arise, see them as opportunities for improvement. Maintain an empathetic tone with your patient and do not downplay the situation. Let them know that you are on their side and listen to what they have to say. Furthermore, take control of the situation and establish a plan. Ensure follow-up to get feedback
Conclusion
In conclusion, acing communication will improve your patient retention rate and give you satisfaction and motivation. A positive experience will lead to referrals and a good rapport. Talking effectively and understanding patients' needs are gold standard strategies that will benefit your patient satisfaction record.
