Abstract
Numerous clinical studies have been conducted and papers written on effective communication. Empathetic communication, defined as responding to emotions and actively appreciating others’ points of view, is associated with better outcomes for patients and families. Some benefits include decreased anxiety and depression, and improved coping strategies. Empathy also leads to improved patient satisfaction in care.
References
Back, A. L., Arnold, R. M., Baile, W. F., Tulsky, J. A., & Fryer-Edwards, K. (2005). Approaching difficult communication tasks in oncology. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 55(3), 164–177. https://doi.org/10.3322/canjclin.55.3.164
Childers, J. W., Bulls, H., & Arnold, R. (2023). Beyond the NURSE Acronym: The functions of empathy in serious illness conversations. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 65(4), e375–e379. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.11.029
Kelley, J. M., Kraft-Todd, G., Schapira, L., Kossowsky, J., & Riess, H. (2014). The influence of the patient-clinician relationship on healthcare outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PloS One, 9(4), e94207. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0094207
Lis, C. G., Rodeghier, M., & Gupta, D. (2009). Distribution and determinants of patient satisfaction in oncology: A review of the literature. Patient Preference and Adherence, 3, 287–304. https://doi.org/10.2147/ppa.s6351