Improving surgeon-patient communication in thyroid cancer diagnosis and treatment discussions: a narrative review

Abstract

Background and Objective: Patient experience is greatly influenced by physician-patient communication. Yet, unmet communication needs continue to be well documented in patients with thyroid cancer. This review discusses factors that may impact this communication and presents communication interventions that are currently being used with thyroid cancer patients. Methods: A narrative review of articles on the physician-patient relationship and communication in thyroid cancer published between 1985 and 2022 was conducted through PubMed and Google. An additional review of the articles referenced in the bibliography of the included articles was performed. Key Content and Findings: This review discusses communication components impacting the patient-physician relationship including physician communication skills and patient communication priorities. Additionally, modern communication interventions such as the use of pamphlets, decision aids, and multimedia platforms are reviewed. Conclusions: Developing a strong physician-patient relationship is a complex process influenced by verbal, paraverbal, and nonverbal communication. Tools such as communication training for physicians, shared decision-making approaches, and multimedia platforms have shown promise in improving communication between physicians and patients. Further study into the barriers of communication, effectiveness of adjunct tools, and patient satisfaction as it relates to communication will continue to improve outcomes.