Patient care presents numerous challenges that test even the most experienced physicians. Dealing with complex medical conditions while managing patient expectations through clear and empathetic communication is never easy and often taxing. Adding the time constraints that limit the depth of our interactions, the emotional burden can feel overwhelming. As the healthcare system becomes increasingly com plex and healthcare workers bear a large part of the burden, strategies to navigate physician burnout become increasingly important. One model that hasn’t received enough attention, yet has been shown to benefit well-being and patient care, is professional coaching skills. This article shares three ways coaching skills can support better patient outcomes and simultaneously enhance physician wellness.
Patient Connection
Improved communication skills build stronger connections by changing how we interact with patients. How we ask questions, listen, and share in decision-making is pivotal when working with a patient. A stronger relationship enhances our impact on patient care, recovery, and a patient’s overall experience. When we connect deeply with our patients, we foster trust and understanding, leading to better adherence to treatment plans and improved outcomes.
Owning Outcomes
The coaching model encourages clients to take ownership of steps to achieve their goals. The same model can be applied to physicians and their patients. All doctors want patients to own their recovery, and coaching skills support this by guiding patients to develop action steps that work for them. While we can share knowledge and best practices, patients are the experts in their own lives and know what is realistic for them. For example, a patient might be more committed to performing physical therapy exercises, taking medication, or developing healthier routines if it aligns with their thinking or achievable goals, leading to better recovery outcomes. We should strive to encourage patients to take ownership of their own health.
Patient Reviews
Patient reviews are a significant area of debate for physicians these days. They support the health of our practice, but they can be damaging if undeservedly negative. Coaching skills can improve the perspective of patients and impact how feedback is delivered and received. A health system using reviews to create competition among physicians is unhealthy. However, receiving patient feedback from leadership in a private setting can be constructive, helping to change practices for the better. This type of non-judgmental feedback is a core component of coaching as well.
Incorporating coaching skills into medical practice can significantly enhance patient care and physician wellness. By focusing on strong communication, physicians can build deeper connections with their patients, fostering trust and improving treatment adherence. Encouraging patients to take ownership of their health outcomes empowers them to engage more fully in their recovery process, leading to better overall results. Additionally, coaching techniques can improve how feedback is delivered and received, helping to create a more constructive and supportive environment. As the complexities of healthcare continue to grow, adopting a coaching mindset can provide physicians with valuable tools to navigate these challenges, ultimately leading to improved patient care and professional satisfaction.
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Jeffrey M. Smith, MD, FACS, PCC
I am a practicing Orthopaedic Traumatologist and a Professional Certified Coach (PCC). I have more than 1,000 hours of one-on-one surgeon coaching experience and 500+ hours of International Coaching Federation (ICF) accredited coach training. Through my personal experience and studies, I have developed The 8 PRACTICEs of Highly Successful Surgeons, a coaching methodology that addresses communication, leadership, time / life management, and more.
Source:
- Vilendrer, S., Kling, S. M., Wang, H., Brown‐Johnson, C., Jayaraman, T., Trockel, M., … & Shanafelt, T. D. (2021). How feedback is given matters: a cross-sectional survey of patient satisfaction feedback delivery and physician well-being. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 96(10), 2615-2627. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2021.03.039