Short Communication
Teresa Chapman
Abstract
Radiologists play a central role in the delivery of health care across all medical environments, and yet the public perception of what a radiologist actually does is often inaccurate. As a community, we radiologists have the opportunity to assume a more visible role in the daily administration of health care. Medical care standards evolve with time due to a combination of complex factors, including financial and political pressures, scientific discoveries, and cultural trends. Over the past decade, more attention has been placed on the value of patient-centered discussions. Here, the rationale for emphasis on improving communication with patients is discussed, and techniques for engaging patients comfortably in shared decision-making are presented.