Let's Talk About It

Patients have said many times that a positive relationship with a health care provider can do wonders for motivation. That same relationship can help save lives. The medical profession is beginning to understand that it is not only the right medicine that is given to a patient or the right operation. Relationships with patients DO matter. In a time when physicians are often encouraged to see many patients as quickly as possible, it is often not possible to give patients the time that they need to talk. Many of the serious medical conditions that affect African Americans, as well as others, will never be appropriately dealt with until doctors spend more time talking with their patients. Patients report that support from their physician was the most important component of intervention in lifestyle issues. In other words, encouragement to lose weight, exercise more, and eat properly is appreciated and helps. Positive changes are seen most in patients with diabetes, obesity, heart disease and other illnesses that are affected by behavior. “Alright, Ms. Jones, lets talk about it”.

I am Dr. Thaddeus John Bell --- Closing the Gap in Health Disparities for African Americans.

Bell Update Volume 3, Chapter 9

Copyright March 2008