[Switzerland] Comforting styles of serious illness conversations: a Swiss wide factorial survey study

[Switzerland] Comforting styles of serious illness conversations: a Swiss wide factorial survey study
BMC Medicine; by Robert Staeck, Carsten Sauer, Steven M. Asch, Sofia C. Zambrano; 4/25 
Background: Serious illness conversations can cause discomfort in patients, potentially impeding their understanding and decision-making. Identifying ways in which physicians can reduce this discomfort may improve care. This study investigates which physician communication styles and characteristics individuals perceive as comforting in physician–patient serious illness conversations. ... Methods: We conducted a nationwide online factorial survey in German, French, and Italian with 1572 Swiss participants from the public (51.4% women) aged 16 to 94. ... Conclusions: Taking time, providing clear information, and ensuring continuity of care are pivotal in enhancing comfort. Also relevant are the expression of sadness, physician self-disclosure, and a prior relationship with the patient.