<p>Communication gaps about OFF periods between physicians and patients with Parkinson’s disease: a patient–physician dialogue analysis</p>

Abstract

Communication gaps about OFF periods between physicians and patients with Parkinson's disease: a patient-physician dialogue analysis Anna V Levit,1 Cheryl Zebendon,1 Lauren Walter,2 Patricia O’Donnell,2 Connie Marras31Acorda Therapeutics, Inc., Ardsley, NY, USA; 2Verilogue, Inc., Horsham, PA, USA; 3The Edmond J Safra Program in Parkinson’s Research, University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, CanadaBackground: As Parkinson’s disease (PD) progresses, patients may experience the return of PD symptoms (OFF periods) despite treatment. Recognizing and treating OFF periods requires effective communication between physicians and patients.Methods: A linguistic analysis investigated communication gaps between patients and physicians using a database containing dialogues recorded during regular office visits. Follow-up interviews were conducted with selected physicians, patients, and caregivers.Results: Four areas were identified showing communication gaps between patients and physicians: differences in language; patient knowledge about OFF periods; differences in approach to describing OFF periods; and attitude toward management of OFF periods.Conclusion: Closing communication gaps may improve overall PD management.Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, communication, motor fluctuations, clinical practice, OFF period