Question

1-How do health care providers’ social networks and professional associations influence clinician behavior and practices?

2-What are some implications of the providers’ social context in professional medical communications?

Answer 1

1.Social networks and Professional associations are an opportunity to meet and converse with same professionals and share problems, experiences with somebody who is able to understand and help. Professional associations fights for the rights of its members and stand for the justice and protection of professionals in the work-place. The sharing of knowledge and experience among the group mates would have a positive influence on every members clinical practice. The United Nurses association(UNA) in India is having tough time fighting with the Hospital owners and the government for the better standard of life for the nurses by demanding for improved salary scale, three shift system and adequate off duties. Here the Hospital owners are under pressure and forced to accept the demand of nurses which is quite justifiable, as the nurses are even ready to go for strike by quitting duty if the association decide.

2.The social context of health provider does have some implications in the professional communication. The Language, culture and Health Literacy are some of the barriers of effective communications among health professionals. The growing diversity of the nation due to migration bring more health care providers into contact with patients with different languages. Effective communication is at risk in such cases. Also the cultural perception of health, sickness and medical care of patients and families may differ with that of the clinicians or organizations.