Using 'windows of opportunities' in brief interviews to understand patients' concerns
Article Abstract:
Using brief 'windows of opportunities' during interviews may help physicians to meet their patients' psychological and social needs in addition to their medical ones. Five highly regarded physicians with at least 15 years' experience were videotaped while interviewing their patients. On average, the interviews lasted 11 to 12 minutes among four of the doctors and 21 minutes for the fifth doctor. Patients' trust of the doctor appeared essential to a positive patient-physician interaction. Interviews were made time-efficient by following the patients' agendas and allowing them to discuss the medical or psychosocial issues important to them. Although each physician had a unique style, they employed similar techniques such as beginning with an open question, listening carefully and ending by recommending some action and conveying empathy. The observed windows of opportunity lasted three to seven minutes but allowed patients to express themselves adequately and physicians to gain insight into patients' psychological and social concerns.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1993
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Information needs and decisional preferences in women with breast cancer
Article Abstract:
Many Canadian women are not satisfied with the role they play in determining the treatment they receive. A survey of 1,012 women with breast cancer in Manitoba province found that two-thirds wanted to choose their treatment or to choose in collaboration with their physicians. However, over half the group felt they had not achieved their preferred role in the decision-making process. Of the women who wanted to play an active role, only 21% succeeded. Fifteen percent felt pushed to play a more active role than they wanted. The most important information these women wanted was whether their cancer could be cured and how far it had spread.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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Breaking bad news: a review of the literature
Article Abstract:
Research is needed to determine the best approach to use in giving bad news to patients. A review of 67 medical articles on bad news found that many physicians recommend giving bad news in private, in person and in the company of supportive friends or relatives. The doctor should convey some hope, use simple language and allow for questions. However, many of these recommendations have never been tested. The transactional approach to stress and coping may be a useful model for breaking bad news to patients.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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