BIOGRAPHY
Graduated Manchester University 1980. Trained as Geriatrician and General Physician in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. MD thesis “Risk Factors for Stroke – A Case Controlled Study”, 1992 Newcastle University. Fellowship at Westmead Hospital, Sydney in Geriatric medicine 1989-1990. I came to Auckland in 1992 and since has practiced as General Physician and Geriatrician, Auckland District Health Board. Clinical Director of General Medicine Auckland district Health Board 2003-2010. I have long-term interest in communication with patients and families and have been responsible for too many mis-understandings with families. These errors have caused me to reflect on family dynamics in patient care. ABSTRACT Trouble with Families Patients have a right to clear information and choices with regard to their health care. They also have a right to have appropriate support. Such support is often given by family members. In addition, such family supporters are often caregivers for disabled loved ones. As Physicians we therefore spend a lot of time talking to families. Communicating with families and engaging them in the care of their loved ones is usually a pleasure. Most families are wonderful. However, too frequently it goes wrong. This presentation with attempt to describe, from the Physician’s view point, some of the phenotypes of families that we find “difficult”. I will also provide some helpful hints on how to reduce the distress both for us and the patients and families concerned. |
