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Risk communication in dental practice: responding assertively to AIDS, fear and infection control
The Journal of the Tennessee Dental Association
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Effective risk communication helps dental professionals manage anxious patients and rebuild trust. Applying these strategies addresses patient fears about dental care and infection control, especially in the context of AIDS.
Area of Science:
- Health communication
- Dental public relations
- Risk management in healthcare
Background:
- Anxious patients present challenges in contemporary dental practice.
- Patient trust and professional credibility are crucial for effective dental care.
- Concerns regarding dental office infection control, irrational fears, and the impact of AIDS necessitate improved communication strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of risk communication science in dentistry.
- To provide strategies for dental professionals to effectively manage anxious patients.
- To reestablish dental professional confidence, credibility, and patient trust.
Main Methods:
- Applying active listening skills with patients.
- Engaging patients' negative beliefs and attitudes toward dental care.
- Implementing grass-roots risk communication strategies.
Main Results:
- Enhanced ability for dental professionals to respond assertively to anxious patients.
- Improved patient trust and professional credibility.
- Better management of psychological, emotional, and economic challenges related to dental care.
Conclusions:
- Risk communication is invaluable in modern dental practice.
- Active listening and addressing patient concerns are key to overcoming dental anxiety.
- Strategic application of risk communication can significantly improve dental public relations and patient outcomes.