How to Communicate with Doctors (or Yakking with Quacks)

I can say Quack because I am a doctor. Promise. One day I'll interrupt a TV program to make a special announcement and reveal my true identity. I'll stop the world's press and create media havoc.

Until that happens though, you'll just have to take my word for it.

Hmm, word. [Superdoc's eyes glaze over and gaze off towards the sunset. It's clear a profound thought is on its way.]

The right words can make a world of difference to return to work. [Told you.]

When it comes to return to work one regular gripe from employers is the difficulty they have dealing and communicating with doctors. This could be ringing but not hearing back, trying to get information from certificates or clarity about restrictions, or signing off on RTW plans. These are common challenges.

A wonderful study in the UK found that 85% of doctors thought employers were not doing enough to help people back to work. The same question was asked of employers, who indicated that 86% of doctors weren't doing enough to assist people back to work.

It's worth understanding how doctors operate.

Doctors are patient-focused. Patients are front and centre in their view, and their prime interest is in caring for the patient. Doctors might be difficult to deal with at times, but the fundamental interest of most practitioners is to care for the person sitting in front of them.

If you want to get the best out of a doctor the best way is to focus on their individual patient's well-being. Otherwise put, be client-focused. Communication with doctors is not too hard if the approach is lined up with what's best for the patient.

There's a group of practitioners in the US who talk about client-centred case management. Basically this means putting the person with the problem front and centre, and that all approaches should be about that person.

In RTW management outcomes would likely be improved if the employer and others focused on the wellbeing of the person/employee/claimant/patient.

Some years ago we (yes, an anonymous super hero complex does result in multiple personalities) worked with employers in return to work care.  Over many thousands of cases it was uncommon for there to be difficulties in dealing with doctors. It wasn't unheard of, but the problem was relatively infrequent. The key approach was to have a good relationship with that person, and to make sure there was a good relationship between the employee and the employer.

Sensible RTW options and support were provided to the treating practitioner.  Patient needs were expedited, such as ensuring liability for any surgery was dealt with efficiently. RTW plans were straightforward, lining up with the condition and the restrictions. The person returning to work was consulted about the duties and was by and large happy with their input and the tasks required of them.

The doctor's task was then easy. They were helping the patient, and they were being helped to help the patient.

If that isn't possible, there are some simple tips and tricks for employers. These include: making an appointment to see the doctor; paying the doctor for their services, getting to know the medical receptionist who can often smooth the path, and inviting the doctor to the work site.

The results of communication in the workplace speak a thousand words, if you'll excuse the pun. And all of them indicate choosing the right words, and using them equals successful return to work.

[Superdoc's eyes glaze over again. Is it a brain wave? It is a brilliant thought? Is it a bird? Nope. Superdoc's falling like Grandpa Simpson into a spontaneous nap. It's been a long night for the superhero folks, fighting evil forces, traversing the planet...until next time]