Book Review: What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear
Author: Danielle Ofri, MD
Book Reviewer: Sadie English
When we begin medical school, one of the first things we learn is how essential history-taking is to achieving a diagnosis. This is why we are subsequently taught a basic schema for history taking, one we practice over and over again through OSCEs and standardized patients. Many of us brush over this skill, as we think we already know how to have a conversation. Therefore, it is a more valuable use of our time to hone our physical exam skills and increase our medical knowledge so that we can “ask the right questions.”
However, in What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear, Danielle Ofri, MD, explores the critical role communication plays in the medical field and why it’s just not that simple. Her empathetic and evidence-based analysis makes the book a must-read for medical students and physicians alike, especially those who often navigate high-stakes conversations.
A large portion of Ofri’s argument centers around the value of meaningfully engaging with patients. Through anecdotes, personal reflections, and her own research, she demonstrates how physicians can enhance patient experiences and improve clinical outcomes simply by taking the time to listen. Ofri highlights that simple gestures, such as pausing to hear a patient’s concerns or taking the time to clearly explain a procedure, can build trust, alleviate anxiety, and foster better adherence to treatment plans.
Through several real-world examples, Ofri illustrates the consequences of inadequate communication, such as missed diagnoses, poor treatment adherence, and diminished patient satisfaction. She suggests how patients who feel unheard may withhold critical information, complicating their care. This insight is particularly relevant in surgical practice, where the stakes of miscommunication can be life-altering. By fostering open dialogue and addressing patient concerns proactively, we can mitigate these risks and strengthen the patient-physician relationship.
While reading this book, I was also completing my critical care rotation. One physician imparted a piece of wisdom to all of us during a teaching session– ”remember that you were given two ears and one mouth for a reason; always listen twice and speak once.” What Patients Say, What Doctors Hear reflects this advice, reminding us of the humanity at the heart of medicine. For any current or aspiring physician, it offers actionable insights for enhancing patient communication, emphasizing that even in the most technically demanding fields, the art of listening remains a critical skill. Ofri challenges readers to reflect on their own practices and commit to bridging the gap between what patients say and what doctors hear—because in that space lies the potential for truly transformative care.
Reviewer Bio: Sadie English MS 3
Sadie English is a third-year medical student at University of Virginia School of Medicine. Sadie grew up in Columbia, South Carolina and obtained her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Clemson University. While completing her degree, Sadie spent time conducting molecular biology research and working in sports data science and athlete recovery at Clemson. She is currently involved in clinical research at UVA and serves as the Southeast Regional Representative for the AWS Medical Student Committee, serves on UVA School of Medicine’s Student Government, and acts as a mentor for underclassmen at UVA. Sadie’s interests include community outreach, social disparities of health, and mentorship, especially in regards to women in medicine. Outside of the hospital, Sadie loves exploring all the amazing restaurants in Charlottesville, buying books faster than she can read them, and picking up new hobbies (currently learning calligraphy!).