Inimă, suflet, dialog: vindecarea prin Cuvânt și paradigma sănătății în cardiologia bazată pe dovezi
Heart, Soul, Dialogue: Healing through the Word and the Paradigm of Health in Evidence-Based Cardiology

Author(s): Alexandru BURLACU, Preasfințitul Nichifor HORIA
Subject(s): Theology and Religion, Religion and science
Published by: Editura Doxologia
Keywords: empathy; communication; health; cardiovascular disease; doctor-patient relationship;
Summary/Abstract: In the therapeutic, patient-doctor conversation, with a particular focus on the field of cardiology, it is recommended to embrace a perspective rooted in hospitality and respect deeply reflected in the expression “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord”. Often, cardiology focuses on reaching “hard endpoints” such as cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction or stroke, and tends to omit or neglect other essential dimensions of human existence that can also be measured and quantified. This orientation emphasises the need to recognise mutuality and mutual respect in the healing process, suggesting that both actors in this conversation should approach each other with the same openness and admiration that animated the spiritual encounters of old. The main aim of this paper is to explore how an ethics of acceptance and respect for the other, in conjunction with a re-evaluation of the indicators of success in cardiology treatment, can improve the cardiologist-patient relationship, facilitating a more efficient and humane healing process by recognising a wider spectrum of variables that influence the patients’ quality of life. The in-depth exploration of four key directions reveals the critical importance of the doctor-patient dialogue in evidence-based cardiology and emphasises the need for an integrative approach in the management of patients with cardiovascular diseases. 1) Empathy and communication: Empathy, seen as a way of perceiving the world from the patientʹs perspective, is essential in improving patient satisfaction, according to several studies. It is important to note that empathy does not have to be just a personal characteristic, but it can be developed and improved through ongoing training and practice. Patient-centered communication, which is based on active listening and understanding the patientʹs individual needs, can significantly improve the quality and outcomes of healthcare. 2) Managing patientsʹ expectations and promoting mutual understanding are essential to avoid discrepancies and misunderstandings that could affect healthcare. By communicating openly, clarifying and creating an environment where the patient feels listened to and understood, physicians can build stronger and more productive relationships with their patients. 3) Patient feedback: Patientsʹ words play a crucial role in the continuous improvement of healthcare. By providing a unique perspective on the quality of medical services and care, patient feedback can help health care providers make informed decisions to improve the quality of health care. Promoting open responsiveness and encouraging patients to share their experiences are important in order to facilitate the continuous improvement of health services. 4) Encouraging religiosity to promote cardiovascular health: Religiosity can play a significant role in promoting cardiovascular health by reducing risk factors, improving lifestyle and providing social and emotional support for patients with cardiovascular disease. In addition, it can provide meaning and purpose in life, which can help reduce mortality and adverse cardiovascular events. These directions reflect the need for an integrative approach to cardiovascular health management and emphasise the importance of an open, empathic, and evidence-based dialogue between clinicians and patients to improve quality of life, treatment, and care.

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