Making "connexions": enhancing the therapeutic potential of patient-clinician relationships

Article Abstract:

A patient-physician relationship based on 'connexion' benefits both participants. The term 'connexion' has been coined to explain moments of understanding, insight and mutual experience between people. Methods of achieving connexion with a patient include the careful use of interviewing and listening techniques, as well as developing the ability to express understanding to the patient. There are risks involved in a clinician's commitment to developing connexion. Dependence and power issues may need to be assessed as well as sexual attraction, which may result from increased intimacy between the physician and the patient. A more psychologically intimate relationship may also increase the physician's risk of experiencing the patient's pain.

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Awkward moments in patient-physician communication about HIV risk

Article Abstract:

Many primary care physicians may be reluctant to discuss HIV risk factors with their patients. Researchers videotaped physician visits by 26 patients with 17 primary care physicians. The patients had all indicated a concern about HIV infection prior to the visit. In over 70% of the visits, the physicians did not elicit enough information to estimate the patient's risk for HIV infection. Most avoided a discussion of risk factors by changing the subject or not following up on patients' verbal clues. Many of the physicians felt inadequately trained or anxious about the encounter.

Analysis, Evaluation, Interpersonal communication, Health risk assessment

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What do doctors find meaningful about their work?

Article Abstract:

Most doctors find meaning in their work when they connect with a patient, make a difference in the patient's life, or change their own perspective based on an interaction with a patient. This was the conclusion of doctors who conduct regular workshops at conferences where they ask doctors to write about the meaningful events in their work.

Surveys, Job satisfaction

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