While we often comment on work that needs to be done to improve physician-patient communication and the numerous strains on this relationship, recent changes in the way doctors and patients interact have overall been positive, according to Dr. Alan Christensen of the University of Iowa, who studies patient-provider interactions and health services.

As Christensen recently told msnbc that the rise in patient empowerment in our health system has caused many physicians to spend more time partnering with patients about their health. Compared to a more paternalistic relationship of 20 years ago, for example, physicians today are more likely to listen more carefully and provide more personalized care for their patients.

"For example, something as simple as test results for cholesterol and lipid levels--it's important to not only tell the patients the numbers, but also what that number means in the context of the patient's overall health, specific habits and lifestyle changes," Christensen explained.

Those who don't embrace these changes are quickly learning that patients are not afraid to find doctors who will, the article contends.

And while all technology has its limitations, many organizations have used electronic communications to enhance the physician-patient bond. For example, Kaiser Permanente uses a secure email system to reach the more than 3 million patients in its network. With a few clicks, patients can access their electronic health records, see their test results, refill their prescriptions and email questions to their doctors.

But at the end of the day, patients are more likely to stick with physicians who demonstrate that they care, at least according to Caitlin Getchell, a healthcare consumer who recently switched PCPs. "I don't mean to downplay how great the bells and whistles are," she told msnbc. "But for me, the ideal would be a doctor who listens and is available."

To learn more:
- read the article from msnbc.com

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