Introduction to Patient Counseling and Education

Catalog description

Emphasizes basic considerations and techniques needed for effective communication with patients regarding their health problems, with emphasis on enhancing patient compliance with medical therapy. Students are introduced to the concept of vulnerable populations such as those with limited literacy, English as a foreign language and those with other special needs. This course positively contributes to students becoming competent in treating patients from diverse populations. Students are also required to explore their own preferences and biases in order to minimize their impact on future patients and to avoid stereotyping. Further instruction is provided regarding differing health beliefs held by patients from diverse backgrounds and ways to effectively communicate with all patients.