The best way for any physician or healthcare worker to gather information from a patient and then educate a patient about their health and the importance of how to effectively manage their well being all starts and ends with using the right type of communication. These include the following:
Empathy. Careful listening. An open mind. Friendliness. Compassion. A genuine interest in the patient. Attentiveness. Willingness to ask questions and initiate conversations. Investing time and effort to educate patients and make sure they understand the illness.
These skills are key to building a trusting mutual respectful relationship between the doctor and patient and be beneficial for all involved.