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INTRODUCTION

Communication is the key in any field, but in the medical profession, lives depend on it. Time again people have come with many theories about this practice but the basic need has always remained the same – good communication. This is at the very core a prerequisite for a job as a medical professional especially those dealing directly with patients. 

The OET Speaking module test an aspirant's ability to weave simple or complex issues together and come to an understanding of what the patient is trying to express. It is extremely important, as this can determine further assessments and treatment. Some of the best online OET coaching sites lay emphasis on this during their training. At Hurray, during the OET online classes as well as classroom sessions, aspirants train to improve their communication skills to ensure that they can deliver the same in the country of their choice. 

So what are some of the key areas in communication that a medical professional must work on? Remember the key is human interaction. No matter how we progress in the world, our need for an emotional or personal connection has not diminished. Doctors and nurses have to be especially careful in getting information and giving it while being involved yet practical and passive yet insistent. Given the current Co – Vid scare and a sense of panic people are completely losing their minds and communication due to fear, restraint or other reasons. So how can doctors & Nurses overcome this? The doctor-patient trust is extremely sacred so first, they need to build trust.

Communication can be good or bad, verbal or non- verbal and at times rife with medical terms that may scare the patient. It is here that the doctor or nurse can make a difference and bring a sense of calm to the patient. One research confirmed, “no matter how knowledgeable a clinician might be if he or she is not able to open good communication with the patient, he or she may be of no help.” 

 WHY DO MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS NEED TO SHARPEN THEIR SKILLS?

Here is a list of reasons. 

1. Interact effectively with a difficult patient
2. Overcome any language barriers
3. Present opinions /diagnosis/treatment
4. Ensure the patient follows instructions on medications and treatment
5. Provide a sense of positivity
6. Make the experience less – frightening and more stable
7. Show empathy
8. Understand and be patient regarding their issues
9. Initiate a relationship of trust
10. Approach difficult issues discreetly

HOW DOES OET SPEAKING HELP?

First of foremost when speaking to a patient you must keep these things in mind:

I – Introduce yourself 

O – Offer to ask for anything they need

T – Take information and review with suggestions

A – Alleviate their fears

The OET Speaking requires all this and much more. It lasts for 20 minutes; covers the Introductory Round and two role – play sections. Despite the practical experience, it can be a little intimidating to sit in a room and pretend to be a scenario. Many falter and so do their dreams of getting a grade B and above. If you can focus on a few basic things then you can perform well in the test. Some of the best online OET coaching centers in the world focus on some key skills. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you get through your test.

1. What is Role-play?

This test includes two role – plays. You as the candidate will play the medical professional while the interlocutor will play the patient or remember the role – doctor, physiotherapist, dentist, nurse, etc. Conduct yourself as a person on duty and speak to the interlocutor as you would speak to a patient.

2. Pre-test Introduction

Although it is an Exam considering the nature of the test, you must be prepared to demonstrate proficient communication skills. It begins with a warm-up – session. Also known as the Pre –Test Introduction, it is here that you identify and professions are checked by the interlocutor. The conversation is based on this. This discussion is not assessed.

You could be asked questions like:

1. Where was your last job as a doctor?
2. How long have you been working as a doctor?
3. Why did you choose this profession?
4. What do you like most about your profession?
5. Describe a typical day at work for you?

Following this, you will be given two role-play cards one after the other, a preparation time of 2-3 minutes respectively and 5 minutes to demonstrate your speaking skills.

3. Action To Be Taken:

Think of an opening sentence: 

1. Write some questions and phrases that you may use during the role play
2. Understand the purpose, structure; start the conversation in a logical way
3. Gauge the patient’s reaction
4. Details of the patient’s visit
5. Make bullet points
6. Identify the setting
7. Whom you are speaking to
8. Jot down some useful expressions & verbs (persuade, emphasize, etc.)

This is essential to determine the kind of language you will use during the role-play. Most times the medical professional has to begin the conversation to make the patient more comfortable. Treating the interlocutor as a patient will make you speak more naturally. You can introduce yourself by saying:

“Hello! I am John the doctor in charge. May I know your name?”

3. Continuing Conversation  

Keeps the interaction going. Do not stop, as this will affect your fluency. If there is an awkward pause then you can take a cue from the patient’s conversation and keep going. Remember you must guide the conversation. You can keep some expressions handy when taking down points to include at these moments. 

Examples:

1. Could you give me some more information on this?
2. Would you mind telling me more about this?
3. Is there anything else bothering you?
4. Would you like to add anything else?
5. Do you have any other problems?

4. Ask Questions When In Doubt

The more questions you ask, the more clarity you will get. Even if there is hesitancy or reluctance on the part of the patient, they will have to answer the questions. The main purpose here is to keep the conversation going. 

For instance:

1. Is it still aching or paining?
2. Can you rate your pain from 1- 10?
3. Have you been suffering for a long time?
4. Are you taking any other medication?
5. Do you have any allergies?  

5. Understand The Patient (the interlocutor)

Try getting as much information as you can. Remember the more information you get the better you can understand his or her needs.

For example:

1. Is there anything else you would like to share?
2. Do not be worried, I am here to help you
3. I understand your concern, so let me explain
4. Would it be ok if I asked you some more questions? 

6. Refine Language and Body Language

Be observant, calm, humble and understanding. For this, you need to be very fluent yet precise and informative. Do not keep fidgeting or look distracted. Maintain eye – contact and body language.

Since the dawn of online learning, being trained in OET for future prospects is no longer difficult. Hurray, offers OET classes Online; one of the few places that provides the best OET Online Courses in Bangalore. To ensure that you get the best online OET coaching come join us for a one on one session. We are available online, so schedule your meeting and get detailed information from our experts. You can contact us via email: overseaseducation@hurrayedutech.com, or call us at 8971357928, for more details.