Communication between professionals

Abstract

This chapter discusses the importance of communication between professionals in palliative care. It begins by describing the evidence base that shows that patient and provider outcomes are significantly related to the effectiveness of interprofessional communication. Next it outlines the principles of good interprofessional communication including the importance of adopting an attitude of curiosity, recognizing that communication happens at several levels simultaneously, and acknowledging the importance of skilful conflict management. The following section on communication among members of an interdisciplinary team (IDT) reviews the barriers to good IDT communication, including team organization, provider hierarchy, and professional identity. The next section on communication between palliative consultants and other clinicians discusses consultation etiquette and its evidence base; highlights some of the particular challenges faced by palliative care consultants; and describes strategies for good communication in palliative care consultation. The chapter concludes with a description of future directions in the study and promulgation of interprofessional communication and the role that the field of palliative care can play.