The International Journal of Communication and Health

This pilot qualitative study of the doctor and medical student’s perspective of the doctor-patient relationship has a specific focus on communication through analysis of their perspectives on communication, limitations, and stresses based on seven semi-structured interviews. The research identified an acceptance of patient empowerment, with homologised relationships, but time limitations hindered addressing the psycho-social issues of the patient. Notably emotional detachment and depersonalisation was favoured by the interviewees as the best mechanism to handle stress. The study identifies that even in the early stages of the life of the doctor the hospital environment causes stress and exhaustion. This highlights the need for alleviation of time pressures within the medical framework and that modern, integrated support and guidance is made available to doctors in order that stress does not impinge on the doctor-patient relationship.