A Study of Patient-Centered Communication in the Indian Healthcare System

Abstract

Background: The current study has the twin objectives of understanding the perception of patient centered communication (PCC) in the lesser developed areas of India with special reference to various demographic characteristics and examine the problems in its implementation.

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to investigate the usefulness of patient centered communication in Indian healthcare system which deals with a large illiterate population base. 

Method: Based on 308 responses from state of Uttar Pradesh, India the PCC was measured using an 18 item Patient- Practitioner Orientation Scale (PPOS). A self-reported questionnaire was administered to elicit demographic details. Data collection was done over various places and at frequent time intervals. The hypothesis and relationships were tested using SPSS and different statistical tests.

Results: There was receptiveness among Indian patients as far as patient centered communication was concerned. Most of the items showed the patient eccentricity to be high. Demographically, age and income had no role in sharing and caring while significant difference with respect to PCC was found based on gender and disease type. Empathic communication can be made an important component of the Indian medical curriculum.

Practice implication: Trainings need to be provided to medical practitioners, particularly in Indian government hospitals, highlighting patient centered communication and its benefits in medical practice