Africa-Press – Botswana. Healthcare providers have been urged to adopt a patient-centered approach and be more mindful of the language they use as poor communication can have life-threatening consequences.
Speaking in a panel discussion at the recent Bomaid Healthcare Provider Pitso in Gaborone, consumer rights advocate Mr Richard Harriman said effective communication was a fundamental aspect of quality healthcare, adding that many patients left health facilities confused and anxious because they were unable to understand the medical information conveyed to them.
“Too often, health personnel use complex medical jargon that patients simply do not understand, this creates confusion, anxiety and in many cases, leads to patients failing to follow medical advice correctly,” he said.
His remarks came at a time when social public concern has been mounting over the quality of service in healthcare facilities, particularly on the communication gap between medical staff and patients. Referencing data gathered from over 3 000 Batswana, Mr Harriman highlighted differences between private and public healthcare facilities in Botswana.
He said the data communicated that only 11 per cent of patients in government facilities reported receiving quality healthcare, compared to 86 per cent in private facilities. Similarly, he said data showed that 84 per cent of patients in private facilities said they received compassionate care, compared to just 25 per cent in public institutions.
“These figures are not just statistics, they are a reflection of the lived experiences of thousands of Batswana,” Mr Harriman said, adding that ‘it takes a national effort to make a difference, and it starts with bridging the communication gap’.
Mr Harriman, a long-standing advocate for consumer protection, said patients deserved more than technical medical treatment, but dignity, attention and empathy.
“Patients need to feel seen, heard and cared for. That begins with speaking to them in a language they understand,” he emphasised.
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