When Imaging Data Contradict a Patient's Self-report, How Should Clinicians Proceed?

Area of Science:

• Medical Communication
• Health Literacy
• Shared Decision Making

Background:

• Discrepancies between patient self-report and objective data (e.g., imaging) present clinical challenges.
• Effective communication is vital for understanding patient perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how patient-clinician communication can resolve conflicts between self-report and imaging data.
• To highlight the importance of health literacy and shared decision-making.

Main Methods:

• Commentary based on a clinical case.
• Analysis of communication strategies.

Main Results:

• Patient-clinician communication, focusing on health literacy and shared decision-making, can clarify patient values and preferences.
• Patient perceptions of involvement in decision-making impact the therapeutic alliance and health outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing communication strategies is essential for patient-centered care.
• Shared decision-making and health literacy support patient well-being and therapeutic relationships.