As an ID fellow in our program, how would you change your communication style if a patient's family had trouble understanding what you were trying to tell them?

"When patients, or their families, don't understand something I've explained, I first try to determine where the communication breakdown occurred. Sometimes, a simpler explanation is all that's needed. If that is the case, I explain things in a very easy-to-understand manner and use educational materials. My goal as an Infectious Disease fellow with your program would be to ensure that my patients and their families understand diagnoses and care plans and that all their questions are answered."

Let the interview panel know you are always cognizant of your audience, especially when speaking with patients/patients' families about critical medical information. Discuss the importance of asking questions to ensure patients' families understand the information you've given them. Assure them that, in cases where patients/patients' families are struggling to understand, you will always attempt to offer information in a different way that considers the cause of their misunderstanding, whether it was your initial approach or their background.