It is the responsibility of the healthcare system and all people within its employ to ensure the communication needs of patients, their families, supporters and carers are met. Effective communication is essential at every step of the care pathway and may be affected by language barriers or cultural differences when a patient, family member, support person or carer identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.
Communication with patients should be:
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respectful
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individualised
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truthful and transparent
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consistent
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in plain language (avoiding complex medical terms and jargon)
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culturally sensitive and appropriate – that takes account of gender (Men’s and Women’s Business), family ties, language barriers, health literacy and socioeconomic issues
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active, interactive and proactive
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ongoing
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delivered in an appropriate setting and context
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inclusive of patients and their families (with their consent).