Improve patient-provider communication, says VA survey
By HME News Staff
Updated Thu November 21, 2013
WASHINGTON - Regular, direct communication with healthcare providers leaves patients more satisfied with their care, according to a new study by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). “Having a provider who is understanding and easy to talk to is highly valued by patients,” researchers said. In the survey, which focused on the VA's Patient Aligned Care Team initiative, 58% said they had excellent communication with providers, 72% said providers explained things clearly and 74% said providers listened carefully. Just 21%, however, described their interpersonal communication with providers excellent. More than 4,000 patients took part in the survey.
Comments