Patient education and counseling
-
Within the context of medical care there is no greater reflection of the information revolution than the electronic medical record (EMR). Current estimates suggest that EMR use by Israeli physicians is now so high as to represent an almost fully immersed environment. This study examines the relationships between the extent of electronic medical record use and physician-patient communication within the context of Israeli primary care. ⋯ We believe that training can help physicians optimize interpersonal and educationally effective use of the EMR. This training can assist physicians in overcoming the interpersonal distancing, both verbally and non-verbally, with which computer use is associated. Collaborative reading of the EMR can contribute to improved quality of care, enhance the decision-making process, and empower patients to participate in their own care.
-
As a key interface between patients and the health-care community, pharmacists are uniquely positioned to promote tobacco cessation. The objectives of this study were to: (a) characterize pharmacists' past training and current activities in provision of tobacco interventions, attitudes toward assisting patients with quitting, and interest in receiving specialized training for tobacco cessation counseling; and (b) identify predictors of pharmacists' counseling for tobacco cessation. ⋯ Provision of comprehensive training that focuses on promoting self-efficacy for counseling likely will increase pharmacists' tobacco cessation counseling activities.
-
Elderly patients are often accompanied during medical visits by a companion, usually a family member. This study explores the association between patients' expectations regarding the communication role of their companions, and the role intended and taken by companions during the medical visits, on patient perceptions of companion helpfulness. ⋯ There would be a largely unexploited potential for improving communication effectiveness through the optimal engagement of companions in visit communication.