Patient communication pattern scale: psychometric characteristics

Abstract

BackgroundIn western societies, a shared decision‐making model for doctor–patient relationships calling for open and collaborative communication is recommended. Research focuses mainly on the doctor's communication patterns, while research on patient communication patterns is rare. The purpose of this study was to develop a tool for evaluating patient's communication patterns – the Patient Communication Pattern Scale (PCPS).MethodsInterviews based on structured questionnaires were conducted with 251 cancer patients. In addition to the 14‐item PCPS, the questionnaire included questions regarding education, religiosity and desirability of control in general and over one's own health in particular, for validating the scale.ResultsThe PCPS was found to be a valid and reliable tool for evaluating patients' communication patterns. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the PCPS designed structure of five facets: (1) Information, (2) Clarification, (3) Initiation, (4) Preferences and (5) Emotions.ConclusionThe PCPS is a reliable scale for evaluating patient communication patterns. The use of this scale can assist in promoting related research and in developing interventions for enhancing open and collaborative doctor–patient communication.

Determinants of satisfactory patient communication and shared decision making in patients with multiple myeloma

“…All the items are rated on a six‐point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree ; 6 = strongly agree ), except for item 10, which is reverse coded. A higher PCPS score indicates that the patient provides more information, including preference, and asks more questions when communicating with the oncologist . The psychometric properties of the PCPS are supported by its satisfactory internal consistency ( α = 0.78) and confirmed five‐factor structure …”

“…A key element in the collaborative model of shared decision making is efficient and effective communication, both on the part of the patient and on the part of the physician. However, most of the current literature focuses on communication from the part of the physician . Our proposed model adds to the literature by emphasizing that patient communication in the collaborative model is also important in achieving optimal shared decision making.…”

“…19 The psychometric properties of the PCPS are supported by its satisfactory internal consistency (α = 0.78) and confirmed fivefactor structure. 19…”

“…Patients' and health care providers' communication skills can also be critical in facilitating shared decision making . In particular, patients with poor communication skills (often those with lower educational levels) may not be able to articulate their worries and concerns or their priorities and preferences to their caregivers.…”

“…18 Patients' and health care providers' communication skills can also be critical in facilitating shared decision making. 19 In particular, patients with poor communication skills (often those with lower educational levels) may not be able to articulate their worries and concerns or their priorities and preferences to their caregivers. Additionally, trust in the health care system and family support in making decisions (or family decision-making self-efficacy) have been hypothesized to impact on shared decision making both directly and indirectly.…”