A Preliminary Investigation of Barriers to Achieving Patient-Centered Communication with Patients Who Have Stroke-Related Communication Disorders

Abstract

This article reports on research investigating barriers to achieving patient-centered communication (PCC) with patients who have stroke-related communication disorders. A focus group, including people who had strokes and their family members, identified PCC issues they encounter when communicating with health care providers. The two key themes that emerged from this research were the desire to be treated with respect and the importance of allowing adequate time for a person with a speech disorder to communicate. Suggestions are given for improving PCC with people who have stroke-related communication disorders.

Keywords:

• aphasia
• apraxia
• cerebrovascular accident
• communication barriers
• communication disorders
• delivery of health care
• patient-centered care