How should lab results be communicated to the patient?

Communicating lab results to a patient is an important aspect of maintaining transparency and ensuring informed decision-making regarding their healthcare. The correct approach is to communicate lab results both in writing and orally, ensuring that patients fully understand their results and the implications for their health.

Providing results in writing serves several purposes: it gives patients a tangible record of their results that they can refer back to, it allows them to digest the information at their own pace, and it provides an avenue for clarification if needed. Conversely, discussing results orally allows for immediate interaction, where patients can ask questions and express concerns, fostering a more direct and supportive dialogue about their health.

Communicating results over the telephone should typically be avoided as it poses challenges for confidentiality, especially in environments where privacy cannot be guaranteed. Additionally, the nuances of medical information may not be adequately conveyed in a brief phone conversation, which could lead to misunderstandings or anxiety for the patient.

Therefore, the appropriate method is to communicate lab results in writing or orally during a face-to-face visit, ensuring comprehensive understanding and upholding best practices in patient care.