Why I encourage my patients to interpret their own medical reports !

At Malpani Infertility Clinic we ensure that our patients are actively involved in every aspect of their treatment.  In the course of formulating a treatment plan, we need to order medical tests ,so we can judge the quality of the eggs and sperms , and use this information to plan further treatment. When patients come back with their reports, I make it a point to ask them what their opinion about the reports is . I want to understand what they have understood from their reports !

This process can be confusing for many patients.  Isn’t it the doctor’s job to explain the reports to the patients?  Yes! It sure is. My unique approach towards the report interpretation is a part of our patient education program.  It helps me to audit how well our patients understand what we are doing for them.

When I quiz my patients about their reports or treatment, they make sure they do their homework before their next visit. Our patients start to take an active interest in their medical management. This benefits them as well as me and my staff. When my patient is aware of what is happening, the staff at Malpani clinic is on their toes at every juncture. The patient is treated with respect and utmost care.

Often patients are afraid to question their doctor , or to ask him to explain the meaning of complex medical jargon. When I question them, I get to know their level of understanding and thus can improve my patient education skills .

A major benefit of improving patient awareness is that it helps to reduce medical errors.  It also ensures that patients have realistic expectations of their treatment, and are in control of their life.  Our patients appreciate the fact that we spend so much time in partnering with them !

We do not believe in confusing the patient by spewing medical jargon and using complex polysyllabic medical terms which are designed to go over the patient’s head , so as to intimidate them.  An active two way approach helps strengthen the doctor-patient relationship , and allows us to deliver the best IVF treatment.

Do you need help in interpreting your medical reports ? Please send me your medical details by filling in the form at http://www.drmalpani.com/free-second-opinion so I can guide you sensibly!