DOCTOR–PATIENT COMMUNICATION: STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP
DOCTOR–PATIENT COMMUNICATION: STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP

Summary/Abstract: The present study explores medical students’ perceptions of communication barriers between doctors and patients, with a particular focus on how these barriers influence patient behaviour and, consequently, the quality of medical care. The research was conducted on a convenience sample of 411 students from the “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Timișoara. Data analysis reveals that the communication barriers commonly identified in the literature are directly reflected in patient behaviour: over 82% of respondents highlighted limited health literacy as a major obstacle to correctly understanding diagnoses and prescribed treatments, while 76.8% reported non-adherence to medical recommendations. Moreover, 68% of respondents indicated that patients tend to avoid follow-up consultations, and 67.6% believe that patients frequently seek non-medical alternatives, such as online information or unvalidated treatments, which may exacerbate confusion and dissatisfaction with professional advice. Additionally, 63% highlighted patient anxiety and fear related to diagnosis as major obstacles impacting the doctor–patient relationship. Overall, the findings underline the need to strengthen communication skills within medical education, reinforcing the critical importance of clarity, empathy, and collaboration in fostering effective therapeutic relationships and improving clinical outcomes.

• Details
• Contents