Learning how to communicate with patients is an art physicians must master. They must learn how to give verbal instructions that are clear, concise, and understandable, and how to deliver bad news in a caring compassionate manner. Communication must be devoid of medical jargon and multisyllabic, confusing and complicated vocabulary. But it also must not be juvenile, condescending, or patronizing.
The doctor must immediately assess the patient’s level of education and ability to intellectually understand the information communicated and adapt language and style to the individual. That has to be done quickly after the patient or relative first speaks, especially for first encounters. Simplifying the message is important, but not to the point of sounding infantile. And this pertains to all age groups. Older folks may not hear everything that’s said, but talking to them like a child is an insult.
Being cutesy or overly familiar by using endearing language can be offensive, too. Eighty year old Mrs. Smith may object to being called by her first name, but the doctor should know that if he knows his patient. But calling her “sweetie,” or “honey” may not be taken well. Be respectful and sincere and tell the truth when you’re delivering news. Give enough information to inform the patient, but also be certain what you’ve said is clearly understood.
Successful communication is essential to establishing rapport with a patient. Clear, simple, understandable, language without medical jargon or $1000 words is best. Adapting to the intellectual level and medical sophistication of the patient is critical so the message is understood.
One size, one way, doesn’t fit all. Adapting to each situation is important, but the more you work at it, polish it, and refine it, the more your skill will improve and be accepted.
Reference: Kamyab AA. The Patronizing Doctor: A Culture Problem. medscape.com 2026 May 25.
