Free publication on how older Hispanics improve doctor-patient communication

May 17, 2006

Dear Migrant Health Research Colleagues,

How well patients and doctors talk to each other is one of the most

important parts of getting good health care. As we get older, it becomes

even more important to talk often and comfortably with the doctor.

Unfortunately, talking to the doctor isn't always easy. It takes time and

effort. A new publication from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) can

help older adults learn to communicate more effectively with their

doctors.

" Conversando con su medico " is a 38-page Spanish-language publication

that includes information on:

-- Choosing a doctor,

-- Communicating effectively with the doctor and other health care providers,

-- Working with an interpreter,

-- Discussing sensitive issues such as incontinence or sexuality, and

-- Finding additional health information in Spanish.

Older Hispanic consumers worked with the NIA to develop this book. They

cited a hesitancy to approach their personal doctors with their health

concerns due to communication barriers and a fear of worrying their

doctors and/or their families. They felt that this book would help them

prepare for a visit with their physicians. According to one participant,

" After reading this book, I feel more confident that I will be able to

talk with my doctor. "

Although they felt their physicians were a good resource, participants

acknowledged difficulty in sharing information with their doctors because

of time limitations on their visits. They agreed that patients should

have questions ready to ask their doctors and that such questions would

help make their time with the doctor more productive.

To order a free copy of " Conversando con su médico " , please call the NIA

Information Center toll free at 1-800-222-2225 Monday through Friday from

8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Information specialists are available to respond

to inquiries in both English and Spanish. You also may order this and

other Spanish-language materials on the NIA Web site at www.nia.nih.gov.

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Community-Campus Partnerships for Health promotes health (broadly

defined) through partnerships between communities and higher educational

institutions. Become a member today at www.ccph.info

Join CCPH for our 9th Conference, May 31-June 3, 2006 in Minneapolis, MN!

Register today for 4 days of skill-building, networking & agenda-setting

Save the Date! CCPH 10th Anniversary Conference, April 11-14, 2007 in Toronto

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