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Last updated on Feb 6, 2025
  1. All
  2. Healthcare
  3. Working with Physicians

You're facing a dismissive physician in a medical case review. How can you assert your input effectively?

Confronting a dismissive physician can be challenging, but your input is vital. To assert yourself effectively:

- Prepare your points thoroughly to confidently articulate the evidence supporting your perspective.

- Use respectful, firm language that emphasizes collaboration over confrontation.

- Seek allies who share your view to provide a united front when presenting your case.

How do you ensure your professional voice is heard in difficult situations?

Working with Physicians Working with Physicians

Working with Physicians

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Last updated on Feb 6, 2025
  1. All
  2. Healthcare
  3. Working with Physicians

You're facing a dismissive physician in a medical case review. How can you assert your input effectively?

Confronting a dismissive physician can be challenging, but your input is vital. To assert yourself effectively:

- Prepare your points thoroughly to confidently articulate the evidence supporting your perspective.

- Use respectful, firm language that emphasizes collaboration over confrontation.

- Seek allies who share your view to provide a united front when presenting your case.

How do you ensure your professional voice is heard in difficult situations?

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Help others by sharing more (125 characters min.)
27 answers
  • Contributor profile photo
    Contributor profile photo
    Stacy Singer, BSN RN

    Acute Care Registered Nurse

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    One thing I've done is to remain professional, present the objective facts in a clear concise format, don't add your feelings or subjective data. I've also informed physicians of their unacceptable behavior and that we're all part of the team with one goal, provide the best quality care possible.

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    5
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    Dr Rony Paul Kirianthan

    Intensivist and Healthcare Quality professional

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    When dealing with a dismissive physician in a medical review, the key is collaboration over confrontation. Physicians may be dismissive due to uncertainty or resistance to change. I would reassure them that the review aims to improve patient care, not assign blame. Acknowledging their valid points while presenting my reasoning with evidence-based logic fosters openness. Maintaining a balanced tone—neither too forceful nor too passive—demonstrates leadership. Clear, structured communication and patience help engage them effectively, ensuring a productive discussion focused on patient safety and best practices.

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    5
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    Contributor profile photo
    Alexandre Messager

    I bring clarity to complex team dynamics | Healthcare Leadership Consultant | Speaker | Facilitator | Author

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    Facing a dismissive physician in a case review is like trying to be heard in a crowded room, you need confidence, clarity, and strategy. Start by fostering psychological safety, remain calm and professional, ensuring your input is framed as a shared effort to improve patient outcomes. Use cognitive diversity by backing your perspective with data, guidelines, or relevant case examples, reinforcing that your insights add value to the discussion. Stay motivated by staying patient yet assertive, asking thoughtful questions that encourage collaboration rather than confrontation. With respect, evidence, and a focus on patient care, you can assert your expertise while fostering productive dialogue.

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    4
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    Steven Currier

    Executive Medical Director, Core Clinical Partners

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    Create safety first! Make sure the environment is framed as an opportunity for everyone to improve care. Not an attack on the providers care. If the provider becomes defensive or dismissive, reassert “we need your help to understand” and we value your input .

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    3
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    Christina Sullivan, MHA

    Patient Access Manager, Princeton Baptist Medical Center, Conifer Health

    (edited)
    • Report contribution

    First, one must be able to back their position with peer reviewed published evidence followed by a respectful but candid retort. Be careful to know the subject matter well enough to answer questions and to fully debate of your position on the matter. In other words, “Don’t bring a butter knife to a gun fight.”

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    2
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    Panktie Vaghela
    • Report contribution

    I often back my suggestions with current literature review. First hearing the physician out followed by respectful sharing of ideas should do the trick! Many times, my patients' improved condition on subsequent rounds is sufficient to have the physician 's trust in my treatment protocols.

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    1
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    Contributor profile photo
    Raúl Enrique Rodríguez Noguera

    Médico General en España - Cirujano Plástico con más de 20 años de experiencia en Venezuela

    • Report contribution

    Un médico con buen estudio y perfecta evaluación del paciente está en la capacidad de exponer el 100 porciento con buen tono de Voz y seguridad tendrá la aceptación de quien lo escuche gracias

    Translated
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    Abraham Antony

    Health Job Board Specialist @ BHC | Driving revenue growth & client satisfaction

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    "Assertiveness in a medical case review starts with confidence, clarity, and evidence-based reasoning. Presenting well-researched insights with a focus on patient outcomes helps establish credibility. Keeping the conversation professional and solution-oriented fosters collaboration, while active listening ensures mutual understanding. When faced with resistance, asking thoughtful questions and reinforcing key points with data can shift the discussion toward a constructive exchange.

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    1
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    Josiah Daily

    Medical Director/Partner at Emergency Services Education & Consulting

    • Report contribution

    You must be confident in your opinion and back your opinion with evidence based medicine. Be expecting the questions to change and lead you down a path of uncertainty

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    1
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    Contributor profile photo
    Soroush Rastin

    MD Endocrinology resident

    • Report contribution

    1. Prepare Thoroughly – Gather all relevant facts, data, and evidence to support your perspective. Anticipate potential counterarguments and have well-reasoned responses. 2. Use Clear, Confident Communication – Articulate your points concisely and confidently. Avoid being apologetic or hesitant, as this may undermine your credibility. 3. Stay Professional and Respectful – Maintain a respectful yet assertive tone. Use firm language that conveys your expertise without being confrontational. 4. Seek Clarification and Acknowledge Their Perspective – Ask thoughtful questions that encourage discussion, such as, “Can you help me understand why you see it this way?” Acknowledging their viewpoint can open the door for more productive discussions

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Working with Physicians

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