It's true - some of the top medical schools include intensive communication courses for our future healers. This stems from a growing understanding of the positive effect of communication skills and strong physician-patient relationships on health outcomes. But patients aren't the only ones who benefit from a good relationship with doctors. According to a University of Chicago study conducted by Dr. Wendy Levinson in 1997, physicians are less likely to be sued for malpractice if they are able to communicate and talk to their patients. Physicians and medical leaders everywhere have recognized this and are making a concerted effort to move toward strong physician-patient relationships.
Most people expect a Rockwellian relationship with their primary care physician.
Warmth and shared goals are more important in a continuing relationship. Most patients expect this type of relationship with their primary care physician over other doctors with whom they may interact. They see interactions with surgeons as episodes, not continuing. What medical school has done to people of my generation is to teach us not to trust the instincts, the feelings, the emotions. Relationship building skills are important in their own right.