Learning and teaching about risk communication

Abstract

[Extract] Risk communication is a fundamental skill in the consultation between health professionals and patients. Such communication is part of the process leading to shared decision-making and involves the clinician discussing advantages and disadvantages of treatment, while specific numerical data about potential outcomes may be given.¹ Risk communication is the open two-way exchange of information and opinion about risk, which should lead to better understanding and better decisions about clinical management.² This exchange of information and opinion is important if treatment decisions are to reflect the attitudes to risk of the patients who will live with the outcomes.³ Informed consent to investigations or treatment is impossible without an understanding of risk. Good risk communication reduces the possibility of litigation.