The role of communication in the physician's office.

The apparent cause of a medical malpractice claim almost always fails to reveal the unseen emotional and psychologic factors that triggered the patient's visit to an attorney; however, the most common element in an adversarial doctor-patient relationship is failed communication. By concentrating on using good listening skills, physicians can greatly improve their relationship with their patients. Furthermore, communication between the physician and the nurse is vital for quality patient care as well as avoidance of medical malpractice.