Synopsis:
The language we use with patients and families has a profound impact on them, and shapes their relationship with health professionals. In Victoria there is a large cohort of children with complex medical needs. Many are seen at RCH by a wide variety of professionals, over many years. In the care of these children, communicating effectively with them and their families can be as important as any medical therapy or procedure. Language can make the difference between a powerless family and an empowered one. It also enables health professionals to empathise better with their patients, improving patient outcomes and practitioner wellbeing.
Ms Rachel Callander is an expert in communication, and is a skilled advocate for children with complex health needs. In this Grand Round, Rachel will deliver a practical, tools-based session to equip RCH staff with communication skills to use with patients and parents. Through photography and personal reflection, she allows us to take a new look at children with complex medical conditions, and form better relationships with them and their families.
Speaker:
Ms Rachel Callander is a TEDx presenter, speaker, trainer, award winning artist and the author of Super Power Baby Project, awarded the Outstanding Book of the Year Award 2015 Independent Publisher Book Awards, New York. This book celebrates the lives and abilities of children with chromosomal or genetic conditions, and was inspired by Rachel’s late daughter, Evie, who was born with a rare genetic condition. In the two and a half years of Evie’s life, Rachel had an insider’s view of the language used in the health system. She has spent the subsequent years exploring the impact of language used by health professionals – to positive and negative effect.
Rachel is now a renowned keynote speaker at medical conferences in Australia and New Zealand. Her messages around using open hearted language strikes a strong chord with health professionals. She teaches how the first words at diagnosis critically shape a parent’s perceptions of their child and their future: the words can allow the parent to be their best, and find meaning even in pain; or they can create anger, mistrust, frustration, and can break down the crucial relationship between the parent and the health professional. This is a conversation about empowerment – for the patient, and for the health professional.