An essential understanding of physician-patient communication. Part II

Part I of this article, which appeared in the July/August (15:1) issue of this journal, explored the question of whether a communication or relational problem exists between patient and physicians. The answer was a resounding, "Yes." Part 2 explores why effective patient-physician relationships should be important to physicians, health care administrators, and managed care organizations and what can be done to improve patient-physician communication and relationships. It describes the results of improved communication, which include increased patient satisfaction, enhanced patient compliance with medication and treatment regimens, and improved clinical outcomes. It outlines the major research and training organizations active in the area of patient-physician interaction and describes the courses offered by each.