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Patients with disabilities and complex communication needs. The GP consultation.
Teresa Iacono1, Hilary Johnson
1Centre for Developmental Disabilities Health Victoria, Monash University and Communication Resource Centre, Scope. teresa.iacono@med.monash.edu.au
Australian Family Physician
|September 18, 2004
Summary
Patients with complex communication needs have diverse disabilities and communication methods. This guide offers strategies for general practitioners to improve doctor-patient communication for these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Healthcare Communication
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Individuals with complex communication needs (CCN) present a wide spectrum of disabilities.
- Communication methods and strategies employed by individuals with CCN are highly varied.
Observation:
- General practitioners (GPs) encounter diverse communication profiles in patients with disabilities.
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods are crucial for consultations.
Findings:
- Effective communication requires understanding individual patient needs and their specific AAC strategies.
- Tailored communication approaches enhance the quality of care for patients with CCN.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers need training to effectively communicate with patients using various AAC methods.
- Improving communication accessibility can lead to better health outcomes for individuals with disabilities.