In a busy OPD, doctors often focus more on diagnosis, medicines, and investigations. But one thing that is equally important is empathy. Empathy means understanding what a patient is feeling and making them feel heard. Sometimes a patient does not only need treatment, they also need someone who can listen to them calmly. A simple smile, soft words, or giving few extra minutes can actually make a huge difference in patient care.
I have always observed whenever my parents or any of the relatives ask for medications , I never directly prescribe them a list of medicines , prior to that I try to have a good conversation with them which helps me to develop trust and a build a more stronger connection as a doctor. At last I prescribe them few medications . Also , I personally don’t have OPD setup but as an intern I have started attending the number of patients , and to my experience of almost a year, many patients come with fear, anxiety, confusion, or stress about their disease. Some are worried about money, while others are emotionally disturbed because of long term illness. When I talk with kindness and patience, patients feel more comfortable and develop trust. This trust improves my relationship with the patient and also increases treatment compliance. Many times, patients follow medicines properly when they feel that the doctor genuinely cares for them.
Empathy also helps in better diagnosis. Patients openly share their symptoms and problems when they feel safe and respected. In Ayurveda too, understanding the patient’s “mana” (mental health) and emotional condition is considered important during chikitsa (treatment). Even in modern medicine, communication skills and empathy are now becoming an essential part of clinical practice.
However, due to heavy patient load and busy schedules, empathy is sometimes forgotten in daily OPD practice. Doctors may become stressed and emotionally tired. Still, even small gestures like listening carefully or reassuring the patient can leave a positive impact.
In the end, empathy is not just a soft skill, it is also a part of good treatment. Medicines can cure disease, but empathy can heal the patient from inside.
Do you think patients remember the medicines more, or the way a doctor made them feel during the consultation?
MBH/PS