Healthcare in the modern era extends far beyond the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. It emphasises a patient-centred approach that recognises the importance of understanding human behaviour, emotions, beliefs, communication patterns, and psychological factors that influence health and wellbeing. Pharmacists today are not only responsible for dispensing medicines but also play a vital role in patient counselling, health education, medication adherence, and collaborative healthcare delivery.
This practical record book, Healthcare Psychology and Communication Skills (Practical), has been specially developed for the students of Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) First Semester, in accordance with the NEP 2020 curriculum. The book aims to provide students with practical exposure to the fundamental principles of healthcare psychology and effective communication required in professional pharmacy practice.
The primary objective of this practical course is to help students understand how psychological and behavioural factors affect patient care and how communication influences therapeutic outcomes. The practical exercises included in this book are designed to strengthen students’ abilities in patient interaction, empathetic listening, counselling, reflective thinking, teamwork, and professional communication.
The contents have been systematically organised to combine conceptual understanding with experiential learning through case-based activities, simulations, counselling exercises, and reflective practices. These activities are intended to develop confidence, ethical values, interpersonal competence, and patient-centred attitudes essential for future healthcare professionals.
Contents –
Introduction
1. Counselling a Patient with Chronic Illness
2. Breaking Bad News in a Clinical Setting
3. Empathetic Listening in Crisis Response
4. Mental Health Cases in Primary Care
5. Impact of Miscommunication in Healthcare Errors
6. Reflective Listening and Paraphrasing
7. Effective Team Communication and Decision-Making
8. Designing IEC Materials for Public Health Awareness
9. Conducting Mock Health Education Sessions
10. Weekly Reflection on Emotional Responses During Care Simulations
11. Growth in Communication Skill Development over the Semester
References