UF Health is proud to have some of the region’s most skilled and highly trained specialists working in our facilities. They not only care for patients, but also conduct innovative research, participate in prestigious worldwide medical conferences and teach the next generation of providers through the University of Florida colleges of Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy.

While their expertise is often unmatched, it means nothing without their ability to effectively listen to the patients and families they serve. Active listening leads to better understanding — a crucial component in determining the next step of a patient’s care. Whether you are making a diagnosis, deciding on a treatment plan, or assessing an injury, listening is the first step toward making an informed decision.

One of the most important things we can do for our patients is to really listen to what they have to say and aggressively work to incorporate their needs, feelings and lifestyles into their treatment and management plans. In this issue, you will read about a mother with a terminal cancer diagnosis who was able to receive lifesaving care through UF Health. Our providers listened to her concerns and administered medical treatment that allowed her to remain active in her son’s life.

Our staff also uses effective communication to enhance the patient experience regarding medications. At the downtown and north campuses, providers from several departments work together to take an active role in educating patients about their medicine, potential side effects and instructions for proper administration.

It is through attentive and responsive listening that we are able to gain a patient’s trust and ease any concerns and fears they may have, in order to promote healing. By sharing knowledge that comes from the patient and the physician, UF Health providers can develop treatment plans that lead to positive outcomes.

Sincerely,

Leon L. Haley Jr., MD, MHSA, CPE, FACEP