Dr Aruna Kalra, MBBS, MD, is a highly accomplished Obstetrician and Gynecologist. She currently serves as the Director of OBGYN at CK Birla Hospital. She possesses extensive expertise as a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgeon and fertility specialist. Dr Kalra has previously held the position of HOD OBGYN at Paras Hospital and worked as a Consultant at Artemis and Max Super Specialty Hospital. In this interview, Dr Aruna Kalra discussed the cruicial role that health literacy plays in treatment process.
When a patient explains to you about their health problems, what are the most common mistakes they make in their communication?
One of the most common errors patients make in their communication is repetition. Patients often tend to repeat information unnecessarily, which can hinder effective communication and waste valuable time.
What does health literacy mean to you, and why is it important in patient care?
To me, healthy literacy means better understanding of physiology and the capability of differentiating between physiology and pathology.
If a patient is knowledgeable about the basics of their health condition, how helpful is it for the overall treatment procedure?
Patients’ knowledge about their health conditions and related procedures can be very helpful.
How much can medical misinformation impact treatment procedures?
Medical misinformation can strongly impact treatment procedures and outcomes.
What are the most common myths or misinformation you see your patients falling prey to?
Some of the most common myths that I come across are about food and contraception.
What is your most common advice to patients to stay away from health misinformation online?
I always advice my patients that if they have a query, the doctors will be available to address and resolve them. Instead of relying solely on online sources, reaching out to healthcare professionals as they will ensure that you have access to accurate and reliable information.
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