You're about to advocate for a patient. How can you establish a strong rapport with them first?

1 Active Listening

Active listening is the cornerstone of building rapport with a patient. It involves fully concentrating on what the patient is saying, understanding their concerns, and responding thoughtfully. As you listen, show that you're engaged by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and avoiding interruptions. Reflect back what you hear to ensure you've understood correctly. This approach not only helps you gather important information but also conveys to the patient that their thoughts and feelings are valid and important.

2 Empathy Matters

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, which is essential in patient advocacy. Demonstrating empathy means acknowledging the patient's emotions, fears, and hopes without judgment. Use verbal cues to express understanding and share in their emotional experience. By doing so, you create a safe space for the patient to express themselves, which can alleviate anxiety and build a deeper connection.

3 Respect Privacy

Respecting a patient's privacy is a fundamental aspect of establishing trust. Ensure that all conversations are confidential and that you're sensitive to the patient's comfort level when discussing personal matters. Adhere strictly to privacy laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which protects sensitive patient health information. By showing that you prioritize their privacy, patients are more likely to open up and share the information necessary for you to advocate effectively on their behalf.

4 Clarify Understanding

Clarity is key in patient advocacy. After listening and empathizing, confirm your understanding of the patient's needs and wishes. Ask open-ended questions to clarify any ambiguities and summarize what you've discussed to ensure accuracy. This step not only ensures that you're on the same page but also reinforces to the patient that you are committed to understanding their perspective thoroughly.

5 Establish Boundaries

Establishing clear boundaries is essential for a healthy advocate-patient relationship. Discuss openly what the patient can expect from you and what you are capable of providing. Set realistic expectations about your role and the extent of your advocacy. This clarity will prevent misunderstandings and promote a strong, professional rapport grounded in mutual respect and understanding.

6 Continuous Support

Offering continuous support means being consistently present and available to your patient throughout their healthcare journey. Regular check-ins, updates, and reassurances can go a long way in maintaining rapport. Let them know you are there to help navigate challenges, answer questions, and provide the support they need. This reliability fosters a sense of security and reinforces the trust between you and the patient.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?