Patient Centered Communication - What is it? Why is it important? Is it occurring on a college campus?

Abstract

Communication within the medical setting is key to patient satisfaction, and overall effectiveness. Patient-centered communication is a type of communication style in which the medical provider allows the patient to express their concerns and take an active part in their healthcare plans. There are several characteristics of medical providers which are demonstrated when patient-centered communication is the preferred communication style. For example, a few characteristics and behaviors are taking into consideration the patients' feelings, sharing a plentiful amount information, speaking clearly, listening actively, and displaying respect, friendliness, and empathy. There is little research on whether patient-centered communication is happening in college campus health centers. I conducted my own research on the topic, at SUNY Brockport's on campus health center, the Hazen Center for Integrated Care, through a 14-question Qualtrics survey. From the survey and its statistics, the Hazen Center for Integrated Care and its medical providers can be concluded as to demonstrating effective communication and patient-centered communication.