The Power of Words in Medicine: How Physician Communication Shapes Patient Decisions
- Dr. Abdulwahab. A. Arrazaghi MD, FRCPC
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
By Dr. Abdelwahab Arrazaghi, MD, FABIM, FRCPC
Why Words Matter in Medicine
Medicine isn’t just about tests, diagnoses, and treatments—it’s also about human connection through language. The words a physician chooses can reassure, motivate, or, if used poorly, confuse and discourage patients. How doctors explain medical information directly impacts a patient’s understanding, decision-making, and adherence to care.
Communication as a Core Clinical Skill
Modern medical frameworks, including the ACGME and CanMEDS, recognize communication as a fundamental clinical competency. Patients value physicians who:
Listen attentively
Explain clearly and simply
Speak with respect and empathy
Research confirms the impact: effective physician communication improves treatment adherence, patient satisfaction, and health outcomes (Street et al., 2009). Beyond sharing information, communication fosters trust and enables shared decision-making (Epstein & Street, 2011).
Words as a Therapeutic Tool
Physicians’ words don’t just convey information—they can directly affect physiological and psychological outcomes:
Positive framing: Emphasizing survival rather than mortality can increase treatment acceptance.
Empathy matters: Brief, compassionate statements can reduce anxiety, lower stress hormone levels, and even improve pain tolerance (Fogarty et al., 1999).
Placebo & nocebo effects: Language shapes expectations and responses—reassuring words enhance treatment effects, while careless phrasing can worsen symptoms (Benedetti, 2014).
Shared Decision-Making: Clarity Leads to Confidence
Shared decision-making (SDM) is central to patient-centered care. Clear communication ensures patients:
Understand their options
Weigh risks and benefits accurately
Make decisions aligned with their values
Decision aids and structured explanations improve knowledge, risk perception, and participation in care (Stacey et al., 2017; Elwyn et al., 2012).
The Cost of Poor Communication
When physicians rely on jargon or fail to explain clearly, patients often:
Misinterpret their diagnosis
Decline necessary treatments out of fear or misunderstanding
Lose trust in the healthcare system
Low health literacy combined with unclear communication correlates with higher readmission rates and worse outcomes (Berkman et al., 2011).
Practical Tips for Physicians
To communicate effectively and empower patients:
Simplify language: Use analogies and everyday terms instead of medical jargon.
Check understanding: Ask patients to repeat back key points (“teach-back” method).
Balance realism with hope: Be honest, but avoid unnecessarily discouraging phrasing.
Encourage questions: Make patients feel comfortable clarifying doubts.
Adapt to culture: Tailor communication to the patient’s language, culture, and beliefs.
Speaking as Medicine
The power of words extends beyond explaining diagnoses or prescribing treatments. A physician who communicates with clarity, empathy, and structure empowers patients to make informed decisions. In this sense, words themselves become medicine—shaping trust, guiding choices, and ultimately improving health outcomes.
