A healing touch is about more than knowing the right treatment

Patient care is not just about providing the right treatments, but also about the manner in which they are delivered. — Filepic

Canadian physician Sir Dr William Osler (1849-1919), who is considered the father of modern medicine, said: “A good physician treats the disease; a great physician treats the patient who has the disease.”

In the intricate dance of healthcare, where science meets human experience, one element stands out as paramount: bedside manner.

It is not just about the medical treatment provided; it is about how that treatment is delivered.

The demeanour, empathy and communication skills of healthcare providers play a pivotal role in shaping the psychological landscape of patients.

From a psychological perspective, the significance of bedside manners cannot be overstated, as it directly influences patient outcomes, emotional well-being and the overall healing process.

From the emergency room and the hospital ward to the outpatient clinic, patients, who, by definition, are in a vulnerable position, appreciate the value of bedside manners.

Most of us form impressions immediately when we meet new people – for better or for worse.

This can be particularly true in a medical setting, where patients are uncomfortable and anxious for information.

Patients who perceive that their doctor has good bedside manners are more likely to view their treatment as effective, to be treatment compliant, and to experience a reduction in symptoms and improved recovery.

Essential emotional connection

When a clinician feels rushed or stressed, their patients may hear it in their voice, which can detract from effective interpersonal connection.

It is worse when the clinician appears patronising or condescending in the guise of being open and frank.

Proactive patient care requires intentional communication and active listening.

Whether bearing good or bad news, cultivating chemistry and credibility impacts patient reaction, response and recovery.

At its core, bedside manner encompasses more than just a comforting smile or soothing words.

It embodies a deep understanding of the patient’s emotional state and the ability to foster trust and connection.

When doctors display empathy and compassion, they create an environment where patients feel safe, understood and valued.

This emotional connection must not be seen as merely a nicety, but a crucial component of effective healthcare delivery.

The impact of empathy and positive communication on patient outcomes is profound.

Lack of empathy or poor communication can lead to increased stress, decreased compliance with medical advice, and feelings of distrust towards healthcare providers.

The psychological effects of bedside manners extend beyond the immediate interaction between doctor and patient.

They ripple through the patient’s entire healthcare journey, influencing their perception of the healthcare system as a whole.

A positive experience with a compassionate doctor can instil confidence and hope, empowering patients to actively engage in their healing process.

On the contrary, a negative encounter may breed disillusionment and reluctance to seek necessary medical care in the future.

The psychological impact of bedside manners is not limited to patients alone.

It also extends to healthcare providers themselves.

Cultivating empathy and maintaining a compassionate approach to patient care can prevent burnout, enhance job satisfaction and foster a sense of fulfilment in the medical profession.

By acknowledging the humanity in each patient and embracing the privilege of guiding them through vulnerable moments, doctors can find meaning and purpose in their work.

Starting from medical school

The lack of bedside manners among healthcare providers can indeed be attributed, at least in part, to the traditional training model in medical colleges.

These institutions have historically placed a heavier emphasis on clinical skills and medical knowledge, rather than on interpersonal communication and empathy.

While medical education has evolved over time to include token training in patient-centred care and communication skills, it still does not receive the same level of attention or priority as other aspects of medical training.

Cultural factors can also play a significant role in shaping the patient-doctor relationship and influencing bedside manner.

In certain cultures, or medical traditions, there may be entrenched beliefs or norms that prioritise authority and expertise, leading to a more hierarchical and paternalistic approach to healthcare.

This can manifest as a lack of emphasis on building rapport, respecting patient autonomy or engaging in collaborative decision-making.

Societal perceptions of the medical profession and the inherent power dynamics between doctors and patients can further perpetuate a culture of paternalism or condescension in healthcare settings.

Patients may feel intimidated or reluctant to question their doctors, while healthcare providers may inadvertently adopt a dismissive or authoritative tone, believing it to be in the patient’s best interest.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses both medical education reform and cultural sensitivity training.

Medical colleges and specialist training programmes can integrate comprehensive training in communication skills, empathy and cultural competence into their curricula, emphasising the importance of patient- centred care from the outset of medical training.

Treat the person

The essence of bedside manner lies in recognising the holistic nature of healthcare.

It is about treating not just the symptoms, but the person behind them.

By embracing the psychological dimension of patient care, doctors can transcend the limitations of medical science and truly heal the mind, body and soul.

Each interaction becomes an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life, to offer comfort in times of distress and to inspire hope in the face of adversity.

As we navigate the complexities of modern healthcare, let us never forget the transformative power of a caring touch, a listening ear and a compassionate heart.

Let us strive to embody the essence of bedside manner in every patient encounter, recognising that in doing so, we honour the fundamental dignity and humanity of those entrusted to our care.

For, in the end, it is not just the medicine we prescribe that heals, but the kindness and understanding with which we deliver it.

Healthcare institutions should actively promote a culture of respect, collaboration and partnership between doctors and patients, recognising the value of patients as active participants in their own care.

It must go beyond the grandiose charters of patient-centred care that adorn the walls of hospitals.

Ultimately, improving bedside manners requires a concerted effort to address systemic barriers, challenge cultural norms and prioritise the humanistic aspects of healthcare alongside clinical excellence.

By recognising the importance of empathy, communication and cultural humility in patient care, we can work towards fostering healing relationships that honour the dignity and autonomy of every individual seeking medical assistance.

This calls to mind the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, to whom the Hippocratic Oath – a historic pledge traditionally taken by doctors upon entering the medical profession – is attributed.

He is also remembered for exhorting medical students and doctors to “cure sometimes, to relieve often, to comfort always”.

Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj is a consultant psychiatrist, the Malaysian Mental Health Association president and Taylor’s University Impact Lab on Mental Health & Wellbeing director. For more information, email [e-mail]. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.