SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – \n Source: St. George\u2019s University<\/i>\n <\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n The first interaction with a patient often sets the tone for the entire relationship. A few small gestures can make a big difference. \u201cWhen meeting a patient for the first time, know their name and pronounce it correctly,\u201d says Dr. Lisa Doggett, Family and Lifestyle Medicine Specialist at the Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center at UT Health Austin. \u201cIf you’re unsure of the pronunciation, ask.\u201d\n<\/p>\n Greet any accompanying family members or friends as well. \u201cDon\u2019t ignore others in the room besides the patient,\u201d Dr. Doggett adds. \u201cAcknowledge family members\u2014perhaps with a handshake or a high-five for a young child.\u201d\n<\/p>\n Time constraints are a reality in any medical setting, but patients should never feel rushed or pressured. A straightforward way to convey attentiveness is to sit down while speaking with them. \u201cStanding makes you look rushed,\u201d explains Dr. Doggett. \u201cEven when you’re short on time, your patient shouldn\u2019t feel that way. A short conversation at eye level can go a long way.\u201d\n<\/p>\n She also encourages finding common ground when possible. \u201cDon\u2019t be afraid to break the ice with an anxious or difficult patient\u2014ask about their family, job, or hobbies.\u201d\n<\/p>\n Good patient communication is just as much about listening as it is about speaking. Active listening enables patients to express their concerns while also facilitating physicians’ efficient gathering of important information.\n<\/p>\n It\u2019s easy to become distracted by electronic health records or note-taking, but eye contact should not be sacrificed. \u201cDon\u2019t hide behind a computer screen,\u201d advises Dr. Doggett. \u201cIf you need to type during a consultation, make sure your setup allows you to face the patient. It shows respect and helps build rapport.\u201d\n<\/p>\n A doctor\u2019s posture and tone can either strengthen or weaken patient trust. \u201cLook directly at the patient when you\u2019re making an important point,\u201d says Dr. Bernard Remakus, Internist and author. \u201cBe aware of your body language and avoid habits that may cause a patient to doubt your confidence or honesty.\u201d\n<\/p>\n \u201cIf you feel something is bothering the patient, identify their affect and discuss the potential problem with the patient before the problem interferes with your history and physical exam,\u201d Dr. Remakus advises.\n<\/p>\n During difficult conversations, patients may understandably be shaken, confused, or upset. A physician with good patient communication will not just understand what a patient is experiencing, but they will also acknowledge and validate the patient\u2019s concerns.\n<\/p>\n \u201cIf the patient starts to cry or expresses strong emotions, stay with them,\u201d says Dr. Doggett. \u201cGive them space to process what they\u2019re feeling, and acknowledge those emotions. Showing your empathy goes a long way.\u201d\n<\/p>\n Good communication with patients isn\u2019t just a courtesy; it\u2019s a surprisingly important element to patients\u2019 health. SGU remains dedicated to equipping students from South Korea with the soft skills and experiences necessary for thriving in global medical careers. For more information on the programs and tracks available through St. George\u2019s University School of Medicine, visit SGU\u2019s website<\/a>.\n<\/p>\n Hashtag: <\/b>#SGU<\/p>\n
\nMedia OutReach Newswire<\/a> – 7 August 2025
\n–<\/i> Good patient communication helps doctors develop personal connections with patients,
\nresulting in a measurable difference in health outcomes<\/a>. Recognizing the importance of strong interpersonal skills as part of becoming a successful doctor, St. George\u2019s University (SGU) School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, shares practical communication tips for aspiring South Korean doctors.<\/p>\n![\"Source:](\"https:\/\/images.media-outreach.com\/652752\/2-students-action-shot-examinati.jpg\")