Monday Morning Motivation from Patient Media, Inc.
From William Esteb: bill@patientmedia.com


Don't treat every patient equally. Keep in mind that 
patients from different generations respond differently 
from experts and authority figures. 

Patients in their upper 50s, 60s and older (the Bob Hope 
generation) want direction. "Doctor's orders" are expected. 
These older patients want to see confidence and a clear 
action plan. Assume the role of a "health coach" or offer 
too many choices and these patients will fault you for 
being indecisive or wishy-washy.

Patients in their upper 30s, 40s and early 50s, the "baby 
boomer" generation wants a different type of doctor. Hungry 
for information, most want to participate in decisions about 
their health care. Offer choices, suggestions, alternatives 
and set aside any inclination to direct their behavior or 
control their actions. Remember, these are the folks who 
drove around in the '60s in VWs with the bumper sticker 
"Question Authority" on them!

Patients in their 20s and early 30s, the "gen-Xers" are more 
like their grandparents. They're open to direction and seek 
efficiency. However, since they still think they're invincible 
and will live forever, many aren't very interested in their 
health. Be firm, concise and use visual aids.

Due to your own way of seeing the world you may feel 
uncomfortable with one or more of these approaches. However, 
by adapting your communication approach based on generational 
differences you can improve rapport and increase patient 
satisfaction.

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A Shameless Plug From The Computer of William D. Esteb:
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Heat or ice? The upcoming venues for our new Advanced 
Patientology seminar cover both extremes of the climate 
spectrum:

     Phoenix, Saturday, April 8, 2000
     Minneapolis, Saturday, April 15, 2000
     Dallas, Saturday, April 29, 2000

Discover the 30 principles of patient-centered practice 
growth and find out what's new. (Lots!) If you have 
attended one of my previous seminars, join us at the 
lower refresher registration fee. Review the seminar 
outline and register on-line at the link below, or call 
us at (800) 486-2337 for more information.

     http://www.patientmedia.com