Guided by reasons

In New Healthcare Communication, understanding and conveying reasons play a central role. Reasons are not only rational-logical arguments, but also emotional and social factors that influence health behavior.

What are reasons?

Reasons are motivators and justifications for actions and decisions in the health context. They can be:

• Factual reasons (scientific evidence, medical necessity)

• Personal reasons (individual preferences, life situation)

• Social reasons (family influences, cultural norms)

• Emotional reasons (fears, hopes, trust)

Importance for Healthcare Communication

Communication led by reasons is important from several perspectives:

1. Patient Understanding

When patients understand the reasons for certain treatments or behavioral recommendations, their compliance and motivation for active cooperation increase.

2. Shared Decision Making

Exchanging reasons allows for collaborative decision-making between healthcare providers and patients.

3. Sustainable Behavioral Change

Understanding one's own reasons for health-related decisions promotes long-term behavioral changes.

Practical Implementation

For successful, reason-based communication, the following aspects are important:

• Active listening and inquiring about the patients' reasons

• Clear explanation of medical reasons without jargon

• Consideration of the individual life situation

• Integration of different perspectives into the communication process

Conclusion

The consideration and communication of reasons is a fundamental building block of New Healthcare Communication. It enables more effective, patient-centered healthcare and promotes active patient participation in the health process.