Communication for Health Professionals

Running head: COMMUNICATION FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS 1
Communication for health professionals
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COMMUNICATION FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS 2
Introduction
Communication is the exchange of information between two or more parties. It is an
integral part among inter professionals to achieve quality healthcare to the patient (Magyar-Moe,
Owens, & Scheel, 2015). In this particular case study, a patient known as Mr. Tanaka has been
referred for counselling due to concerns about his mood. He is worried, anxious and guilty since
he feels that he is overburdening his sons and his family. In order to assist the patient, different
healthcare professionals should communicate and coordinate to provide harmonized healthcare
to Mr. Tanaka. This however comes with ethical considerations and challenges that they have to
overcome. Within the framework of this essay, there will be an analysis of different concepts
regarding communication among health professionals.
Discussion
Developing rapport
Creating rapport with a patient or client is essential since it enhances communication.
There are different things that a healthcare professional should do in order to develop rapport
with the patient. In this case, I will begin by establishing the common ground. Several studies
indicate that creating a common ground is likely to positively impact the process of
communication (West, 2012). I would therefore ensure that I find out what Mr. Tanaka loves so
that I emulate the same. Being on the same ground will motivate him so that he is frank enough
to share his predicament. Another strategy to develop rapport is by complementing the client
(O'Toole, 2016). I will therefore look out at what is good with him then complement him so that
he feels appreciated and valued. However, one should be genuine enough with the compliments
since studies argue that sycophancy can break up the relationship. Furthermore, I would express

COMMUNICATION FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS 3
real interest in the patient’s predicament. This can be done by active listening, facial expressions
and use of gestures (Feo, Rasmussen, Wiechula, Conroy, & Kitson, 2017). Furthermore, I would
create a conducive environment by being friendly to Mr. Tanaka. I would smile at him, be
cheerful in an authentic manner. Finally, I would ensure that I am myself. I won’t copy or
emulate something different. Furthermore, this also not the time to try something new and it
could hinder communication with my client Mr. Tanaka. With several studies agreeing that
developing a rapport with a patient improves patients outcomes, all healthcare professionals
should understand and incorporate strategies that can enhance rapport with their clients.
Communication strategies and how to implement them
Communication cannot be effective without certain features or strategies. One of the
essential communication skill or strategy is active listening (O'Toole, 2016). According to
studies, nothing is irritating as talking to someone who cannot listen to you. I will therefore
implement this skill by always paying attention to whatever Mr. Tanaka is talking about with
interference. I would only respond when asked to. Furthermore, I won’t interrupt while my client
is talking. Secondly, I would avoid using jargons. Jargons are complicate vocabularies or words
and could discourage the patient (Price, 2017). I will therefore ensure that I use simple language
that my client can easily understand. I would also ensure that I am audible enough for the client
to hear whatever am talking about. Finally, I would employ non-verbal communication skills
such as facial expressions, body language and use of gestures. It is imperative that all healthcare
professionals comprehend and incorporate effective communication skills with their clients so as
to make communication effective in order to achieve their objectives.