Effective communication in health care: elements, cultural differences, and provider strategies

Communication

How does effective communication incorporate the basic elements of communication?

Effective communication is an integral aspect of the any performance standard. Without communication, the health care professional's effectiveness is diminished due to lack of awareness. To improve performance and effectiveness all stakeholders with a direct connection to the consumer should be involved (du Pre, 2005). Broad participation is the mechanism through which this is accomplished. Broad participation allows for involvement in all levels of the consumers health. With this involvement of influential members of the health care span of control comes a heightened sense of commitment and awareness. More individuals are now aware of the consumer long-term growth objectives and can thus formulate methods in which to achieve them. In addition, a feedback mechanism is created that allows the individual to effectively communicate with senior or more experiences friends on their personal effectiveness. In addition, the individual is a better position to pinpoint opportunities within the conversation that may be a detriment to effective communication. With strong standards and involvement of other members, constructive communication can easily alleviate any negative influences that are embedded in the overall communication processes (du Pre, 2005).

Communicating and educating consumers begins by informing all stakeholders involved on the merits of the performance standards within the facility. Once established, Health Care employees, friends and other stakeholders can then formulate opinions and methods in which to improve their performance and the quality of care given to consumers. This again helps the individual impact their overall performance. By implementing many of these solutions Health Care employees are a better position to enhance performance. With more individuals aware of the firm's communication objectives, more ideas are then generated. In addition to this, Health Care employees can feel more comfortable discussing issues with senior friends and family members to insure that long-term strategies for success are indeed in place. Being aware of the constructive communication strategies allows for commitment and accountability on the part of the entire firm.

Finally, being clear and concise is also very important. Too much information can often confuse your intended audience. By being clear and concise, Health Care employees are better able to ascertain corrective measures in regards to consumers. It also allows for a seamless conversation to ensue which allows for further refinement within the context of the conversation. Overall, the clearer the message, and the more effective it will be for the intended audience (Cheesebro, 2010).

How do the basic elements of effective communication differ from the basic rules of health care communication?

Health care communication often has a goal in mind. These goals can range from offering a service to influencing a decision. Goal setting using performance standards allows individuals to set goals for themselves in regards to communication. This is different from basic communication which may or may not have a particular goal in mind. By translating high level objectives to individual tasks, the health care individual is directly altering their communication behavior. This in turn, individual the parent to create reasonable tasks and objectives for themselves. As a result, Health Care employees are better able to accomplishing the overall objectives for themselves (Hicks, 2012).

Another basic principle besides goal setting and feedback is more individual based. Health care professionals when communicating can not let emotions deter the message in which they are attempting to deliver. This also differs from basic elements of communication which are often immersed in emotion. Often, anger clouds the judgment of health care employees which hinders the overall communication process. This in turn, translates into lost relationships with both children and other individuals. As such, it is important for health care employees to not lose their temper in regards to communication. It is best to simply to reframe from immediate action when angry or upset. Health care is a very complex process. It requires both skill and expertise in order to effectively accomplish consumer goals Furthermore, many external factors such as work, anger, sadness, and other emotions hinder the communication process. By being aware of common shortfalls in the overall communication process, health care employees are better able to effectively speak to others (Cheesebro, 2010).

How might a provider encourage a reluctant consumer to communicate candidly?

To encourage a reluctant consumer to communicate candidly, the relationship must first be genuine. Within the health care profession, generally sensitive information is discussed. In order to communicate effectively, the consumer must feel that their interests are important. In addition, there must exist a two way form of communication that allows. Providers must be willing to listen to consumer complaints or grievances. Providers must also be willing to take action on behalf of the consumer to better show trust. Through their actions providers can help consumers feel more comfortable about health related issues.