Neil H. Baum, MD, presented “Distractions and the Doctor-Patient Relationship” for the Grand Rounds in Urology audience in July 2022.
How to cite: Baum, Neil H. “Distractions and the Doctor-Patient Relationship.” July 2022. Accessed Apr 2024. https://grandroundsinurology.com/distractions-and-the-doctor-patient-relationship/
Distractions and the Doctor-Patient Relationship – Summary
Grand Rounds in Urology Contributing Editor Neil H. Baum, MD, Professor of Urology at Tulane Medical School, presents on the impact distractions have on the doctor-patient relationship. Dr. Baum reviews data on the role distracted driving plays in fatal car crashes and draws on research demonstrating that even distressing events, such as one’s team losing the Super Bowl or the stress of tax day, can increase car crashes. Essentially, anything that takes the focus off the road for even a moment can increase the likelihood of getting into an accident. Dr. Baum then draws a parallel to distractions in the exam room noting that doctors may spend more time looking at the computer than the patient. Moreover, staff may interrupt an exam for a variety of non-urgent issues further impeding focus on and care of the patient. Dr. Baum concludes that physicians should avoid and eliminate distractions in their practice by using technology to avoid data entry during an exam and setting criteria for permissible interruptions.
For more commentary on practice management from Dr. Baum, visit his Improving Your Urology Practice page.
