Emotional Intelligence: A Critical Tool to Understand and Improve Behaviors That Impact Patient Care

Abstract

Health care is an extremely complex process. Medical advancements made possible through the introduction of new and innovative treatment and technologies has significantly improved health care outcomes and expectations. At the same time it has changed the way we deliver care. With a growing focus and accountability for patient management across the entire spectrum of care, successful patient outcomes are dependent upon strong multidisciplinary care team involvement. Many providers accustomed to the one time traditional independent authoritative approach now have to learn how to participate as part of a health care team. For many this is a difficult transition. Many organizations have recognized the need for change and have provided education and training courses on a variety of topics designed to improve behaviors that enhance communication and collaboration. But there is still a void. In an effort to improve behaviors it is necessary to understand behaviors. In this regard, many industries have successfully utilized Emotional Intelligence skill training as a tool to enhance behavioral attitudes and reactions. These tools would be extremely beneficial in the health care arena