More than 100 frontline healthcare workers gathered at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow on Saturday for a comprehensive orientation program focused on enhancing work ethics and patient interaction skills.
Diverse Healthcare Professionals Unite for Training
The program brought together receptionists, junior reception officers, public relations officials, medical social workers, and nursing staff who serve as the initial point of contact for patients. This diverse group of over 100 healthcare professionals participated in sessions designed to improve institutional outcomes and strengthen public confidence in healthcare services.
Key Insights from Communication Experts
Professor Mukul Srivastava from Lucknow University's mass communication and journalism department delivered a powerful address to the assembled staff. He emphasized that discipline, time management, and behavioral refinement form the foundation of excellent healthcare service. The professor highlighted the critical role frontline staff play in patient experience, describing them as "shock absorbers" who must learn to listen with genuine empathy.
"A satisfied patient is worth a thousand advertisements," Professor Srivastava stated, underscoring the importance of patient satisfaction in building institutional reputation. He firmly maintained that patient dignity must remain paramount in all healthcare interactions.
The Critical Role of Communication in Healthcare
Professor Devendra Gupta, CMS at the institute, reinforced that effective communication stands central to hospital functioning. His address focused on how clear, compassionate communication can significantly improve patient outcomes and streamline hospital operations.
Adding depth to this perspective, Medical Superintendent Professor R Harshvardhan highlighted the often-overlooked aspect of non-verbal communication in patient care. "Words are only a medium. How we communicate matters more," he explained, pointing out that body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions play crucial roles in making patients feel heard and respected.
The orientation program represents SGPGIMS's ongoing commitment to enhancing both technical medical services and the human element of healthcare delivery, recognizing that exceptional patient care requires excellence in both clinical skills and interpersonal communication.
