Delivering bad news—any news that drastically and adversely alters the patient’s life or future—is one of the most challenging tasks faced by physicians as it can negatively affect patients, relatives and physicians themselves. Given the critical nature of bad news, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required by physicians, who are usually unprepared for the communication complexity and emotional intensity of conveying such news.
Training in breaking bad news and communicating effectively, utilizing evidence-based protocols is the key to delivering value-based care and helping patients and their families adjust to the consequences of that news, within a framework of trust, respect and empathy.