The Caregiver's Lens: Why Doctors Need to Talk To Caregivers, Not Just About Patients.

Mom and Me, 2023

My days are a balancing act. By day, I advise medical practices on everything from patient flow to staff engagement. By night (and often in between), I'm a full-time caregiver for my parents. This dual role has illuminated a critical flaw in our healthcare system: the often-overlooked voice of the caregiver.

Doctors frequently talk about patients, but rarely to the caregivers who are the unsung heroes of their care. Caregivers are the ones who witness daily changes, manage medications, and advocate for their loved ones. We are the constant presence, the keepers of the medical history, and the interpreters of often-complex medical jargon.

Yet, too often, we are treated as an afterthought. Information is relayed quickly, questions are brushed aside, and our concerns are minimized. This needs to change.

I've seen firsthand how proactive communication can make a world of difference. When doctors take the time to explain diagnoses, discuss treatment options in detail (and in plain language!), and actively solicit caregiver input, the entire care process improves. It empowers caregivers to make informed decisions, reduces anxiety, and ultimately leads to better outcomes for the patient.

In my consulting practice, I advocate for this shift. I work with practices to develop strategies for engaging caregivers, from creating dedicated communication channels to providing educational resources. Because I know from personal experience that when doctors truly partner with caregivers, they're not just treating a patient; they're supporting a family. And that's the best medicine of all.