It is no secret that communication barriers among healthcare professionals and patients often result in the increased chance of medical errors, which leads to patient harm. A study conducted by the Joint Commission of Patient Safety, for example, has indicated that more than 70 percent problems in healthcare provision are caused by communication errors. In this context, communication problems cited between nurses and physicians are regarded to be the major cause of such incidents.

The Institute of Safe Medicine Practices (ISMP) has shown how intimidation becomes the main reason of errors. Sometimes, nurses feel pressured, making it difficult for them to communicate effectively.

But the story is a bit more complex that just that—there are a handful of reasons for the challenging nature of communication in healthcare.

Many studies point to the fact that healthcare is sometimes unpredictable and complicated, especially when professionals from different disciplines have to work together. Various teams involved in the system may have completely different backgrounds and areas of expertise. As such, this causes different perceptions of patients’ needs. This is also a point of conflict when it comes to prioritizing activities and procedures.

Even more, it is important to note the hierarchical structure that restrains communication as well. With this, a sense of openness is lost and a culture of inhibition is created, one that hinders effective communication. In addition, different communication styles are also observed because of disparities in cultural the backgrounds of healthcare professionals.

So what’s the solution? How do we develop effective communication?

Educational curriculum in medicine is known to focus on an individual’s technical skills, meaning many don’t learn the system of teamwork. Collaboration and cooperation is often neglected and communication skills are left undeveloped. Here are some tips for improving these skills:

• Encouraging face to face communication
• Preparing staff for a better communication
• Streamlining concerns and issues in order to resolve them
• Giving immediate response to questions
• Information dissemination with efficient information exchange
• Creating chances of decentralization and staff communication
• Enhanced provision of chances where effective communication and teamwork can be done

However, before devising and implementing a suitable communication strategy, one must identify their goals and targets, such as:

• Provision of continuous education for people involved in a healthcare team
• Assuring psychological safety and open exchange of opinion to reduce the chances of medical errors
• Taking initiatives for integration of staff communication strategies within the culture of the organization
• Developing useful educational tools and enhancing flexibility in application process within a diverse practice setting
• Maintaining high-quality and consistency of staff involved in education and service provision