Improving doctor-patient communication by visual thinking tool design

Abstract

Currently, mental healthcare recognizes the benefits of optimal communication between patient and doctor in the treatment process. However, the protocols and therapeutic doctor-patient interactions are not yet designed to fully realize their potential, as patients who have different psychiatric symptoms often find it hard to clarify and communicate their intertwined life issues.

Hence, the thesis addresses the implementation opportunities to use the Visual Thinking and Storytelling design method to tackle this communication challenge, provide clarification and structure to help the patient voice their issues, and improve doctor-patient communication. Simultaneously, the method also allows patients to engage in Shared decision-making and receive better treatment (Slade, M., 2017). This thesis uses the mental health organization Geestelijke Gezondheidszorg (GGZ) Delfland’s ITB Support program as a context example, with the aim of proposing a new visual story communication strategy to help the GGZ Delfland improve the clarity and structure of communication between social workers and clients.

To provide better clarification and structure, a Visual toolkit was designed to help the health experts clarify the clients’ needs. In addition, a Visual strategy plan was designed to guide the GGZ Delfland on how to operate the toolkit in the ITB program. This thesis gives inspiration about how Visual Thinking the Storytelling can improve doctor-patient communication and how they can be used in practice.