Vandana GuptaFounder,

V Care FoundationOctober 20, 2010

Doctor does not want to be your

advocate

Doctor does not understand

you?

Doctor does not speak in simple

language

Doctor does not allow you to

disagree or ask a question

Doctor does not make you feel comfortable

Current Scenario

The Doctor patient ratio in India is 1:1588*

Ideal ratio should be 1:500

3X times!*Deccan Chronicle , July 10, 2009

How can we work together to address this challenge

Patient’s NeedConfidenceCompetenceMutual respectKnowledgeTrustShared Values

Patient’s viewThe physician is generally viewed as superior

to the patientThe doctor-patient relationship is also

complicated by the patient’s sufferingDoctor’s busy schedule may prevent the

patient getting a patient hearingA dilemma may arise in situations where

what is the most efficient treatment is not the same as what the patient wants for various reasons.

What a patient wants…To be seen and get test results in a timely

mannerDoctor---not the staff---should call with bad

results.Doctor should tell what medicines one is

getting and their side-effects.Doctor should explain everything in terms

one can understand.A kind “hello” at the beside

What a patient wants…Be patient and engage patients in medical

decision-makingAcknowledge the stress that patient

undergoes and respect each patient’s preferences, beliefs and values

Explain results and directions in simple termsOffer encouragement and compassion, but

don’t sugarcoat problems and solutions

What a patient wantsHave a sense of humor, but not at the

expense of a patient’s dignityNever brush off questions about alternative

medicines or other medical issuesState plans clearly for what the patient

should do next

Patient’s responsibilityBe honest with your doctor on the issues

concerning your healthCompliance, Compliance, CompliancePatience is a virtue!Both of you have the same goal : Patient’s

good health

Any Questions