Pandemic Lessons Learned on How Doctors, Patients Connect

Everyone has had to adjust in some way to living life in a pandemic. Doctors and their patients have had to work together in new ways to talk, connect and find the best treatment plans. The person-to-person time has been hindered by masks, online appointments and a shift in how patients approach their health care. 

While we have seen hurdles to how we approach health care today, we can also find some positivity and take these lessons moving forward – no matter what the future may hold.

1. Expressions and body language tell part of your health story. Doctors and their health care team have had to rely on text or masked up patients to hear what issues they are facing. These can be a real barrier to truly connecting physician to patient. It remains important for experts to be able to see what you are saying whenever possible. How you are dealing with pain or a new condition can be better understood through your delivery and expressions. If you can do video or in-person appointments, this will really help your health care provider get a better grasp on your overall wellness.
2. Patients taking the power of self-exams into their own hands is important. Traditionally, physicians have relied on examining patients hands-on. Especially when it comes to pain management, doctors may need to manipulate muscles or joints to diagnose and treat conditions and injuries. If patients can have a modicum of knowledge about self-examinations, they can help doctors when it’s a virtual appointment and also learn more about their own bodies and conditions.
3. Virtual appointments can open a window onto your world. We have all had to utilize Zoom or online connections in many areas of our lives from personal to professional. Not everyone has been comfortable with this technology and having exposed our home bases to others. While we move more and more back to in-person events and appointments, know that there is value in health care providers seeing you in your home environment. This glimpse may provide a new perspective, especially for those facing chronic pain. We may be able to offer new insight into your treatment plan by being able to see your everyday environment.

How We Work With You Every Day

While here at Pain Control Associates we have also had to adjust, what has remained the same is our patient-centered care and commitment to providing patients with a more pain-free life. We will continue to hear your story and find out about your lifestyle, injuries and source of pain. This knowledge helps us work on the best approach for your chronic pain, no matter what the source of it.

During your first appointment, you can expect our physicians to listen and answer any questions that you have about how we work and what we do. 

When you are ready to take that first step toward relief, we are ready for you! Contact us online.