When Doctors Don’t Listen

If you think that your doctor really listens to you, you might be one of the lucky few, or, you might need to think again. Studies have found that doctors prevent patients from finishing their opening statements nearly 80 percent of the time. Do you have a health concern? Well, in most cases, doctors give you just 18 seconds to explain before they interrupt. So talk fast because they’re busy.

Critics say that kind of encounter is typical. And it isn’t just rude. It’s resulting in too many misdiagnoses. Too many tests. Too little quality care.

My guests today argue that the relationship between patients and doctors is due for a fundamental re-think. Not less talking, but more. And more listening, too — by patients and doctors. Especially doctors.

Guests

• Leana Wen, an emergency physician at Brigham & Women’s/Massachusetts General Hospital and a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School. She’s the co-author of the new book When Doctors Don’t Listen: How to Avoid Misdiagnoses and Unnecessary Tests.
• Joshua Kosowsky, Clinical Director of the Emergency Department at Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He’s the co-author of the new book When Doctors Don’t Listen: How to Avoid Misdiagnoses and Unnecessary Tests.

More:

• CommonHealth When Doctors Don’t Listen (And Hangover Leads To Spinal Tap)

Excerpt