Language matters. Addressing the use of language in the care of people with diabetes: position statement of the English Advisory Group

Abstract

The language used by healthcare professionals can have a profound impact on how people living with diabetes, and those who care for them, experience their condition and feel about living with it day-to-day. At its best, good use of language, both verbal and written, can lower anxiety, build confidence, educate and help to improve self-care. Conversely, poor communication can be stigmatizing, hurtful and undermining of self-care and can have a detrimental effect on clinical outcomes. The language used in the care of those with diabetes has the power to reinforce negative stereotypes, but it also has the power to promote positive ones. The use of language is controversial and has many perspectives. The development of this position statement aimed to take account of these as well as the current evidence base. A working group, representing people with diabetes and key organizations with an interest in the care of people with diabetes, was established to review the use of language. The work of this group has culminated in this position statement for England. It follows the contribution of Australia and the USA to this important international debate. The group has set out practical examples of language that will encourage positive interactions with those living with diabetes and subsequently promote positive outcomes. These examples are based on a review of the evidence and are supported by a simple set of principles.

Written communications from hospital diabetes departments: standards required to mitigate unintentional harm

“…The importance of the words spoken by healthcare professionals when communicating to people with diabetes has been highlighted in the recent Position Statement of the English Advisory Group . The Working Group used a number of examples to illustrate both the potential positive and negative impact that language used by healthcare professionals can have on people with diabetes.…”

Update on technologies, medicines and treatments

“…This is not to say that healthcare professionals should not be working with people with diabetes to help them achieve the best possible control, but talking about the difficulty of doing so can help overcome the feelings of shame and guilt that many people experience. Healthcare professionals also need to be very aware of their language when talking about targets, to be more empathetic and not to come across as blaming the individual .…”

Language Matters ‐ but so does the philosophy

“…Two articles in the current issue of Diabetic Medicine address the importance of language in clinical encounters: a review of the importance of language and a Diabetes UK Position Statement . The latter is adapted from the NHS England Language Matters document .…”

“…The quote from “a person with Type 2 diabetes” sums this up perfectly:

‘It wasn't necessarily the language used, but rather the tone of voice and attitude of the medical professional in question. …… I am yet to experience the ideal: an adult and constructive conversation in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect.

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