Empathy: the bridge to an empathetic doctor-patient relationship

The doctor-patient relationship is of great importance for the well-being of patients. Empathy is used to create a connection that enables doctors to communicate with their patients on an emotional level and build trust. Trust is important, especially when necessary decisions need to be made about the next treatment steps. Patients feel heard, understood and respected when they feel that their doctors are interested in their well-being and take their needs seriously.

Patients must not only be treated competently, but also empathetically. The aspect of the relationship between patient and specialist staff has so far mainly been a recognised component for the success of therapies in the psychotherapeutic setting. Especially in the therapeutic setting, where therapist and patient sometimes see each other on a weekly basis for years and deal with different stressful experiences, a functioning relationship must exist between the two. The patient must be able to confide in a stranger outside their everyday bubble and relive many traumatic experiences in a safe setting. In return, the therapist must be able to build a relationship in order to empathise with the patient’s situation.

But patients also need to feel comfortable when visiting practices in other specialisms. If there is a lack of trust in the specialist staff, there may be a likelihood that medical advice and instructions will not be followed. Some patients also need to have a great deal of trust in the specialist staff for treatments that are very close to the body, such as gynaecological examinations or dental treatments that cause a great deal of anxiety. This is especially true if the specialist staff still have some prejudiced and outdated knowledge. Empathy can also help to reduce experiences of discrimination for patients in the healthcare sector. LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people who are overweight and other marginalised groups in particular are often confronted with prejudice and discrimination. Minority stress caused by experiences of discrimination can make these patients less likely to visit practices and clinics to avoid discrimination.

This is where the importance of empathetic doctors comes into play. An empathetic attitude helps patients to gain trust and share their concerns openly. By recognising and addressing the specific concerns of marginalised groups, doctors can help patients feel better understood and accepted.

It is important to note that empathy is not only expected from doctors, but also requires a reciprocal relationship. Patients should also be open and share their own needs and experiences to enable effective communication and understanding on both sides.