The overlooked voice : advocating for p̶a̶t̶i̶e̶n̶t̶ client agency in medical practice

Abstract

This paper presents narratives where doctors overlooked the importance of listening, resulting in human, funny, tragic, and sometimes deadly experiences, and outcomes. It argues for enhancing client agency in medical interactions, emphasising the transformative impact of valuing clients' perspectives. I draw on experiences highlighting the consequences of dismissing voices in the hope of acting as a springboard need for a person-centred approach in healthcare. While miscommunication or a lack of effective communication between doctors and clients can contribute to errors, I acknowledge that the causes of medical mistakes are multifaceted, and I, from the outset, declare that I have great respect for doctors, also as a doctor’s daughter. This chapter, begs all professionals to listen to and consider information, even if it does not make sense to them, and always to treat patients as clients. The paper considers the philosophical and practical implications of the words patient and client and then leaves the narratives to dominate.