AHRQ stresses better communication between clinicians, patients

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) launched this week an ad campaign under the theme “Questions are the Answer,” encouraging clinicians and patients to engage in more effective two-way communication to ensure safer care and better outcomes.

The initial public service ads are directed at clinicians with the message that asking patients simple questions can reveal as much important information as medical tests. Research shows that better communication correlates with higher rates of patient compliance with treatment plans, according to AHRQ.

“We know that when patients and clinicians communicate well, care is better. But in today’s fast-paced healthcare system, good communication isn’t always the norm,” said AHRQ Director Carolyn M. Clancy, MD. “This campaign reminds us all that effective communication between patients and their healthcare team is important and that it is possible—even when time is limited.”

The AHRQ ads will run in donated space this fall in print and online medical and allied health journals.