5 Important Tactics Surgeons Can Use To Help Hesitant Patients Feel More Comfortable & Book More Surgical Cases

Fearless Steps: Surgeons’ Artistry in Easing Surgical Apprehension

Written by: Aaron Michael Buch

Surgeons often encounter patients who are hesitant to undergo surgery, even when it is clear that the procedure is necessary for their health and well-being. This hesitation can be caused by a variety of factors, including anxiety about the surgical process, fear of complications, and concerns about recovery time. However, there are steps that surgeons can take to help hesitant patients who need surgery agree to the procedure.

1. Address patient concerns: Surgeons should take the time to listen to and understand the concerns of their patients. By addressing these concerns directly, surgeons can help to alleviate patients’ fears and anxieties about the surgical process. This can be done by providing information on the benefits and risks of surgery, as well as information on how to prepare for surgery, recover from surgery, and manage post-surgery care.

2. Provide alternative treatment options: When appropriate, surgeons should present alternative treatment options, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or non-invasive procedures, to patients who are hesitant to undergo surgery. By providing patients with a range of treatment options, surgeons can help to alleviate fears and anxieties and give patients more control over the course of their treatment.

3. Provide pre-surgery counseling: Many patients may benefit from pre-surgery counseling to help them prepare for the procedure and to manage any emotional concerns they may have. Counseling can be done individually or in a group setting and can be led by a trained professional such as a therapist, counselor or psychologist.

4, Communicate effectively: Surgeons should communicate with patients in a way that is respectful and easy to understand. This can be done by providing clear explanations of the surgical process and post-surgery care, as well as addressing any concerns or questions that patients may have.

5. Empower the patient: One of the biggest factor that causes anxiety in patients is the feeling of being out of control. Empowering the patient by giving them control over the process of the care, will help the patient feel more comfortable and confident about the surgical process. This can be done by involving patients in decision-making about their healthcare, providing them with information on the surgical process, and encouraging them to ask questions. Additionally, by giving patients access to resources such as a patient helpline or email support, they can have easy access to support and answers even after the surgery.

Surgeons often encounter patients who are hesitant to undergo surgery, even when it is necessary. This hesitation can be caused by a variety of factors, such as anxiety about the surgical process, fear of complications, and concerns about recovery time.

By addressing patient concerns, providing alternative treatment options, providing pre-surgery counseling, communicating effectively, and empowering the patient, surgeons can help hesitant patients who need surgery agree to the procedure and ensure they receive the care they need. It’s important to remember that every patient is different, and the approach should be tailored to the specific needs of the patient.