Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Partha Protim Choudhury
Moushumi Debnath holds a master’s degree in Neurophysiotherapy and has pursued postgraduate in Rehabilitation and Clinical Research. With over 25 years of experience, she currently serves as an Associate Professor in Thane-based DPO’s Nett College of Physiotherapy in Maharashtra. She says how medical conditions can deteriorate because of health misinformation.
When a patient explains to you about their health problems, what are the most common mistakes they make in their communication?
When communicating with doctors, several common mistakes made by the patients. Such as, patients do not give clarity of their medical problems, rather most of the time confused. Secondly, patients use medical jargons, that too incorrectly which they learn from the internet. Third is, they forget to mention about the important details of medical history. This important to note that, they also have some tendency to exaggerate symptoms. Lastly, due to embarrassment or fear, they may not give the actual details of their problem or symptoms.
Overall, being mindful of these common mistakes and actively striving for clear, open communication can enhance the patient-doctor relationship and improve the quality of medical care received.
What does health literacy mean to you, and why is it important in patient care?
Health literacy refers to an individual’s ability to understand the healthcare system, comprehending medical information, making informed decisions about their health, and actively participating in taking care of their own health or medical conditions. It is important in patient care because:
1. Patients with health literacy are more able to understand their health conditions, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits. This enables them to make correct decisions about their treatment plan.
2. Health-literate patients can communicate more effectively with healthcare providers, asking questions, expressing concerns, and provides accurate information about their symptoms and medical history.
3.Patient with health literacy will adhere to the treatment regimens, understand about the complications and knows what lifestyle changes are required.
If a patient is knowledgeable about the basics of their health condition, how helpful is it for the overall treatment procedure?
When patients possess a fundamental understanding of their health condition, you can expect several positive outcomes, such as:
1. Communication with doctors about their medical conditions are easier and more efficient.
2. They will adhere to the regular medical treatment and appointments.
3. Understanding about any early warning signs due to any adverse effects.
4. Their trust on medical treatment reduces stress and anxiety about the procedures.
How much can medical misinformation impact treatment procedures?
Medical misinformation can affect treatment procedures in several ways. Firstly, it may exacerbate the medical condition by causing patients to misunderstand their symptoms, potentially leading to delayed or inappropriate treatment. Secondly, it can also cast doubt on the reliability of alternative therapies, making it challenging for patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare options.
What are the most common myths or misinformation you see your patients falling prey to?
Patients are frequently susceptible to widespread myths and misinformation regarding healthcare. One prevalent misconception is the belief that doctors routinely refer patients for unnecessary investigations, leading to concerns about overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Additionally, another common myth is the notion that natural remedies are superior to conventional medicines, fostering distrust in medical interventions. These misconceptions can influence patient decision-making and undermine trust in healthcare providers, highlighting the importance of patient education and clear communication in dispelling such myths.
What is your most common advice to patients to stay away from health misinformation online?
The top advice I consistently offer my patients centers around two key points. Firstly, I emphasize the importance of sourcing information from reputable platforms such as government health websites, medical organizations, and peer-reviewed journals. Secondly, I stress the necessity of seeking professional healthcare consultations when needed. By adhering to these principles, patients can access reliable information and personalized medical guidance, ensuring they make informed decisions about their medical conditions and receive appropriate care.
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