Tiago Silva Jesus1, Isabel Lopes Silva2. 1. Health Psychology Department, Medical School, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Elche, Spain Universidade Fernando Pessoa, Oporto, Portugal jesus-ts@outlook.com. 2. Universidade Fernando Pessoa, Oporto, Portugal.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There is a growing interest in linking aspects of patient-provider communication to rehabilitation outcomes. However, the field lacks a conceptual understanding on: (a) 'how' rehabilitation outcomes can be improved by communication; and (b) through 'which' elements in particular. This article elaborates on the conceptual developments toward informing further practice and research. METHODS: Existing models of communication in healthcare were adapted to rehabilitation, and its outcomes through a comprehensive literature review. RESULTS: After depicting mediating mechanisms and variables (e.g. therapeutic engagement, adjustment toward disability), this article presents the '4 Rehab Communication Elements' deemed likely to underpin rehabilitation outcomes. The four elements are: (a) knowing the person and building a supportive relationship; (b) effective information exchange and education; (c) shared goal-setting and action planning; and (d) fostering a more positive, yet realistic, cognitive and self-reframing. DISCUSSION: This article describes an unprecedented, outcomes-oriented approach toward the design of rehabilitation communication, which has resulted in the development of a new intervention model: the '4 Rehab Communication Elements'. Further trials are needed to evaluate the impact of this whole intervention model on rehabilitation outcomes.
BACKGROUND: There is a growing interest in linking aspects of patient-provider communication to rehabilitation outcomes. However, the field lacks a conceptual understanding on: (a) 'how' rehabilitation outcomes can be improved by communication; and (b) through 'which' elements in particular. This article elaborates on the conceptual developments toward informing further practice and research. METHODS: Existing models of communication in healthcare were adapted to rehabilitation, and its outcomes through a comprehensive literature review. RESULTS: After depicting mediating mechanisms and variables (e.g. therapeutic engagement, adjustment toward disability), this article presents the '4 Rehab Communication Elements' deemed likely to underpin rehabilitation outcomes. The four elements are: (a) knowing the person and building a supportive relationship; (b) effective information exchange and education; (c) shared goal-setting and action planning; and (d) fostering a more positive, yet realistic, cognitive and self-reframing. DISCUSSION: This article describes an unprecedented, outcomes-oriented approach toward the design of rehabilitation communication, which has resulted in the development of a new intervention model: the '4 Rehab Communication Elements'. Further trials are needed to evaluate the impact of this whole intervention model on rehabilitation outcomes.
Authors: Catharina M van Leersum; Albine Moser; Ben van Steenkiste; Judith R L M Wolf; Trudy van der Weijden Journal: Health Soc Care Community Date: 2021-07-12