Things to consider when teaching doctors how to deliver good, bad and sad news

Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings about the importance of different diagnostic tests, under-reporting of Key symptoms and side-effects and poor adherence to treatment regimens or willingness to accept advice. Such situations are disturbing for patients and their families and professionally and personally unrewarding for doctors (Fallow-field, 1992). The reasons for communication failures are complex and include characteristics of both patients and doctors, and the system of health care delivery. However, one of the primary reasons for the sorry state of affairs is the inadequate training given to most doctors in effective communication skills. This paper looks at some of the difficulties experienced by patients and their doctors and considers how to help correct the communication deficiencies.