How do you handle a situation where a patient expresses dissatisfaction with their therapy?


 Theme: Patient Satisfaction  Role: Physical Therapist  Function: Medical

  Interview Question for Physical Therapist:  See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Physical Therapist: Help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility This role falls within the Medical function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here

 Sample Answer 


  Example response for question delving into Patient Satisfaction with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

  •  Empathy & Active Listening: I would start by actively listening to the patient's concerns and expressing empathy towards their dissatisfaction. This involves giving them my full attention, maintaining eye contact, and acknowledging their feelings
  •  Open Communication: I would encourage open communication by asking the patient to elaborate on their specific concerns and what they expected from their therapy. This helps me understand their perspective and identify any gaps in their treatment plan
  •  Problem Identification: Once I have a clear understanding of the patient's concerns, I would work with them to identify the specific issues they are facing. This may involve assessing their progress, reviewing their treatment goals, and discussing any challenges they have encountered
  •  Collaborative Problem-Solving: I would involve the patient in the problem-solving process by discussing potential solutions together. This could include adjusting the treatment plan, modifying exercises or techniques, or addressing any communication or scheduling issues
  •  Education & Explanation: I would take the time to educate the patient about their condition, the rationale behind their therapy, and any limitations or challenges that may arise during the treatment process. This helps manage their expectations and empowers them to actively participate in their own recovery
  •  Follow-up & Support: After implementing any necessary changes, I would ensure regular follow-up with the patient to monitor their progress and address any ongoing concerns. I would also provide additional support and resources, such as recommending complementary therapies or connecting them with support groups if needed

 Underlying Motivations 


  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

  •  Conflict resolution skills: Assessing how well you handle patient complaints and resolve conflicts in therapy
  •  Patient-centered approach: Evaluating your ability to empathize with patients and address their concerns
  •  Communication skills: Assessing your ability to effectively communicate with patients and address their dissatisfaction
  •  Problem-solving skills: Evaluating your ability to identify and address issues that may arise during therapy

 Potential Minefields 


  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

  •  Blaming the patient: Avoid blaming the patient for their dissatisfaction as it shows a lack of empathy and understanding
  •  Lack of problem-solving skills: Avoid not providing any solutions or strategies to address the patient's dissatisfaction
  •  Defensiveness: Avoid becoming defensive or dismissive of the patient's concerns, as it indicates an inability to handle criticism
  •  Lack of communication skills: Avoid not mentioning the importance of open and honest communication with the patient to address their concerns
  •  Lack of empathy: Avoid not expressing empathy towards the patient's feelings and frustrations