THE IMPACT OF EMPATHY ON MEDICAL PRACTICE (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Introduction: the term empathy is of Greek origin and means “passion for the other, a state of mind that comprises the feelings that another person experiences, namely: suffering, passion, sadness and anger”. Empathy is a feeling of emotional understanding. Studies show that empathic behaviors on the part of doctors are essential in the doctor-patient relationship (MPR), promoting a bond of respect, trust and safety between the patient and the professional, also implying therapeutic success. It is known that PMR has changed over time and currently unsympathetic attitudes are avoided, however, physicians still face limitations in the practice of empathic skills.

Goal: this review analyzed the impact of empathy on some aspects of medical practice, with the aim of making professionals realize its importance and encourage its application.

Methodology: narrative review of the literature based on articles published in the last 10 years in Pubmed, Lilacs and Scielo databases. The publications reviewed in the study were chosen from the following descriptors: physicians, empathy, humans, NOT (medical student), NOT (undergraduation), NOT (medical education) and NOT (resident), in all the databases used. 82 articles were selected and the analysis method included the survey of variables that are influenced by the use of empathic skills by the medical professional.

Results: most studies revealed a positive impact of empathic practice on PMR and patient care. Most physicians believe they have low empathic ability for reasons related to working conditions and specific patient subtypes. The analysis also revealed that surgeons and emergency room physicians are often less empathetic than those working in internal medicine and pediatrics, and that female physicians tend to be more empathetic than physicians.

Conclusion: empathy is a key element for building the doctor-patient bond, as well as a fundamental aspect in treatment adherence. However, there is still a great limitation in relation to the use of empathic skills by physicians and, therefore, it is important to raise awareness of its importance in the context of PMR.