COMMUNICATION RISK ASSESSMENT - … RISK ASSESSMENT How well is your communication style protecting...

COMMUNICATION RISK ASSESSMENT

How well is your communication style protecting you

from malpractice claims? (Consider asking your staff to complete this survey)

When I enter an examination or hospital room, I introduce myself and all staff members who are with me to each patient and to their family or friends in the room.

1-never 2-rarely 3-sometimes 4-often 5-always

I allow my patients to explain why they have come to see me without interrupting them for at least 60 seconds.

1-never 2-rarely 3-sometimes 4-often 5-always I ask my patients how their symptoms or conditions are affecting their lives.

1-never 2-rarely 3-sometimes 4-often 5-always I repeat what my patients have told me in order to assure that I have understood them correctly.

1-never 2-rarely 3-sometimes 4-often 5-always I inform my patients of the name of their condition and give a description of it.

1-never 2-rarely 3-sometimes 4-often 5-always I use visual aids (drawings, models, handouts) in explaining their condition to my patients.

1-never 2-rarely 3-sometimes 4-often 5-always I ask my patients for their opinion of any treatment plan I propose, and if there are factors that might make it difficult for them to follow the plan.

1-never 2-rarely 3-sometimes 4-often 5-always

Total score: ________________ If your total score is 28-35: Congratulations! You have excellent communication skills. Have you considered mentoring your colleagues? If your total score is 16-27: You have a good foundation in effective communication skills. Improvements will only help you to have more productive and satisfying relationships with your patients. If your total score is 15 or below: Your communication skills are putting you at increased risk of malpractice claims, independent of your clinical competence.

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