Patient Trust: Key to Better Health Outcomes

As healthcare providers, pharmacists play a vital role in helping patients manage their health conditions and medications. However, this role is often more than just dispensing medications. The relationship between a pharmacist and a patient is built on trust, which is essential for effective communication, better health outcomes, and ultimately, patient satisfaction.

Trust is critical in healthcare because patients often rely on healthcare providers to provide accurate information, support, and guidance. That is why at Cavalier Pharmacare, our pharmacists build trust with patients as it is essential to ensure they feel comfortable discussing their health concerns with us.

When patients do not trust our pharmacists, it can have several negative consequences, both for them and for the healthcare system as a whole. For example, patients who do not wholly, honestly entrust their medical history to us, or to any healthcare provider, will poorly communicate. They will be uncomfortable discussing their medical issues or asking questions, which can result in misunderstandings, missed diagnoses, and ineffective treatments.

Additionally, those who lack trust in their healthcare providers may delay seeking care or pharmaceutical services. When this happens, patients may experience worse problems and severe health complications. Others, on the other hand, may seek professional help but refuse to follow their prescribed treatment plans, take their medications as directed, or attend follow-up appointments.

This refusal to work with us, pharmacists, and other healthcare workers cannot only endanger their health in the long run but also become an avenue to sabotage themselves. By choosing not to follow professional health advice and plans, they’re more likely to spend more and suffer adverse health effects. Non-adherence due to a lack of trust leads to increased healthcare costs because of missed diagnoses, ineffective treatments, and increased hospitalizations.

Thus, at our drugstore, we see to it that we embody and showcase a range of qualities that they appreciate and value in their pharmacists. So they can see through our dedication and professionalism, we make sure to be approachable, respectful, and acquainted with the necessary information to guide them accurately.

Here are some other tried-and-true ways we build trust with patients:

• Listen actively.

  When patients come to us with questions or concerns, we make sure to give them full attention and actively listen to what they have to say. This can help them feel heard and valued, leading to a stronger sense of trust. Avoid multitasking or interrupting them, as this can make them feel like they are not important to us. We listen actively to be able to respond with accurate and up-to-date information, as any misinformation or incorrect advice can result in negative health outcomes.

• Show empathy.

  Patients want to feel like their healthcare provider cares about their well-being, and pharmacists are no exception. This is why it’s vital to show empathy toward them. It not only motivates medication adherence but also makes them feel more comfortable and open about their health. By acknowledging their concerns and validating their experiences, they will appreciate our dedication to helping them. In addition, we show them that we can handle their sensitive medical information with care and confidentiality. To make sure of that, we comply with all HIPAA regulations and take measures to safeguard patient data. We also avoid discussing patient information in public areas or with unauthorized individuals.

• Be honest and transparent.

  Patients appreciate a straightforward and honest approach. So, we don’t pretend to know everything; if we don’t have an answer, we would rather admit it and promise to get back to them with accurate information. We do not want to provide them with an answer right away when we are not completely sure about the concern, especially about potential side effects or risks associated with medications and other types of medical supplies. However, we assure our clients that they can feel comfortable asking questions or discussing their health concerns with us. We achieve this by creating a friendly and welcoming environment and ensuring that they know they can approach us for help.

• Stay sharp and follow up.

  Lastly, patients trust pharmacists who know their field. Hence, we stay up-to-date with the latest developments in pharmacology to remain confident in our expertise. Being professional and competent in the field can help patients feel confident in our service. To add, we always remind ourselves that our job doesn’t end once a medication is dispensed or advice is given. Following up with patients to see how they are doing can help build trust and show that we care about their health and well-being. Whether it’s a phone call or an email, taking the time to follow up can make all the difference.

At our retail pharmacy, we are passionate about serving our clients and providing the highest quality care possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always available to assist you in any way we can!