How to Take Care of Your Patients so They Feel Cared About
Francis W. Peabody wrote, 'The secret of the care of the patient is in caring for the patient."
What are the best ways we can take care of patients in a way that they feel cared about and valued?
Be Curious
Douglas S. Paauw, MD
Make sure to listen intently when your patients are sharing their symptoms and concerns. Do not look at the computer when they are sharing sensitive information. Ask questions that show you really want to understand their concern. Ask how this symptom may be affecting their lives and what they are worried about.
A curious line of questioning is helpful when you do not have a good explanation for the patient's symptoms. Because you asked in depth about the symptom and clearly show that you are considering what it could possibly mean, the patient will feel reassured despite the uncertainty. Be curious about who they are and what is important to them. Getting to know the person helps develop trust.
Affirmation
I think this is one of the most important things we can do to help patients feel cared about, to feel confident in the partnership you have with them to promote their health. Let patients know how happy you are with their progress toward goals. For example, when a patient has gone from the precontemplative phase to the contemplative phase of smoking cessation, it is great to affirm the work they have done and show the optimism you have that they will be able to quit smoking. When patients are trying to eat healthier, even when they are not succeeding all the time, point out some of the changes they share with you that are positive and encourage them to continue.
I think it is also important to tell patients you are glad when they reach out to you to be evaluated about a new symptom or problem. Many patients think they are burdening us when they bring up a new problem; reassure them that we want to know when they have concerns. Patients often have their own opinions about what could be going on, and I like to congratulate them when they help me understand their symptoms and make a diagnosis. I also like to recognize and thank patients when they have read about their diseases and have developed a deeper understanding of the medical problems they have.
Adaptability
Be adaptable in the care plan you have for the patient: including ideas and thoughts the patient has is important in earning their trust. Include their ideas in the care plan even if it's not something you would do. I find this especially true in the realm of natural products. Patients often want to try a natural product for a symptom or clinical problem. My feeling is if there is no significant side effect or danger, letting the patient incorporate treatments that they want to try helps build trust in your relationship with them.
It also opens up more possibilities if they do not improve; they usually will be more receptive to my recommendations. The same goes for starting prescription medications. Sometimes patients are not ready to start appropriate medication at a clinic visit. I encourage them to read about the medication and think about the advice that I have shared with them; hopefully, we will be able to start the treatment at their next visit.
Building trust with your patient is essential. It allows you to be a more effective healthcare professional and saves time as well. When patients trust you, they are much more likely to follow and accept recommendations.
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Why it matters. Last accessed: June 2025. Available at: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obesity and Severe Obesity Prevalence in Adults: United States, August 2021–August 2023. Last accessed June 2025. Available at: © 2025 Novo Nordisk All rights reserved. US25SEMO01477 June 2025 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE NOVO NORDISK INC.
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