2. Clearly address the patient’s concerns. It’s not good enough to set expectations, but in the appointment, the concerns actually need to be addressed. For example, if the patient with rheumatoid arthritis is preoccupied with a ganglion cyst on the hand and he or she clearly has synovitis of the ankles bilaterally, you may want to address the synovitis. However, the patient may feel as if the ankles are “not a big deal.” It is important to set up a treatment plan for the ganglion cyst, which is the patient’s primary concern, and obviously address the synovitis in the ankles. This is the best scenario—it is a win–win. The patient feels like his or her needs are being addressed, and the doctor is treating the underlying disease process. If the ganglion cyst is not addressed, the patient may walk away grumbling and upset, only to ask the next doctor about the same concern.
3. Relate to the patient. Rheumatologists are physicians who can really get to know and develop great relationships with their patients. We ask intimate, personal histories, and we need to know the answer to have the complete story. The medications that we prescribe can have devastating consequences, and it is up to us to educate the patients about the risks, benefits, and side effects. Relating to the patient can be as simple as asking the patient about a hobby or home life. It creates a sense of connection beyond the disease process that allows a patient to feel that we care. Anecdotally, patients are more likely to make the follow-up appointments, take their medications, and listen to their doctor if they feel like the doctor actually cares.
Dr. Cobb is a second-year rheumatology fellow at the Case Western Reserve University/MetroHealth Medical Center Rheumatology Fellowship Program in Cleveland.
