Responses
Other responses
Jump to comment:
- Published on: 23 September 2019
- Published on: 23 September 2019Re: [How good are doctors at introducing themselves? #hellomynameis]
Dear Editor,
It was a pleasure reading the explorative study by Gillen et al, which focused on the effects of introductions and handshakes on patient satisfaction by the end of a consultation. The study concludes that the majority of patients expected such gestures; which was received positively. The results reinforced how powerful the #hellomynameis campaign was; given it was a lucrative collective effort which ultimately made patients feel comfortable. The paper demonstrates how these simple, yet overlooked, consultation techniques are pivotal in building a positive rapport with patients, translating into a successful patient-doctor experience.
On reflection of our own experiences as medical students, introducing oneself is one of the first communication skills we are trained to do. Nailing your introduction is taught to be the basis of forming a courteous and lasting first impression. As students, we spend excessive amounts of time trying to formulate a focused history, sifting through our medical knowledge in search for the next question to ask in order to rule in and out conditions. It’s fair to say that the first few attempts at history taking are longer than an average consultation with a senior clinician. Therefore, we agree with Gillen et al that clinicians and by extension, medical students- should introduce themselves by their full name and state their objectives so that the patient feels at ease knowing who they are speaking to. Furthermore, impl...
Show MoreConflict of Interest:
None declared.