Takeaway
Asking patients to show photos of family, pets, or other meaningful things can help them feel more thoroughly known and cared for. This can sometimes make a visit more productive and meaningful for everyone.
Connecting with Patients | September 11, 2024 | 1 min read
By Jeffrey Millstein, MD, Penn Medicine
When one of my newer patients was in for his latest visit, he was excited to tell me about the time he spent with his new grandchild over the previous weekend. When I asked if he had any photos to share, his face lit up as he pulled out his iPhone and scrolled through a few highlights. It extended his visit by a few minutes, but added a personal, connecting element which he appreciated. It also created an opportunity for me to know him better as a person and to understand more deeply what he values. When patients mention people, pets, or events that are important to them, consider these ideas:
1. Show curiosity and interest when patients share special non-medical life events.
2. Ask if they would like to share a photo or video.
3. Be prepared for the possibility that these casual connecting conversations may sometimes bring new concerns to light.
4. These interactions don’t have to wait until the end of the visit. In fact, having them earlier may reduce anxiety and make for more productive time together.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.