On use of ‘medi-speak’ and the need for plain language in doctor-patient communications. Tongue-in-cheek in parts (the example is funny). Quote:
So docs: if you are frustrated that patients no longer accept your advice as if coming from a demi-God, just sprinkle in a few more big words, discuss a few more rare complications of each treatment choice, and the decision will be back in your hands. Your bewildered patient will be dependent upon you for your wisdom and counsel.
On the other hand, if you want to truly serve your patients’ best interests, and share the decision making burden with them, then please take care not to overwhelm them with unnecessary detail. And remember to use words that don’t require a medical degree to understand.
Don’t overwhelm patients with unnecessary detail.
