By Nicole Dhanraj
Have you ever found yourself in a meeting or rounding with your team, only to hear a team member casually refer to a patient as a “frequent flyer” or label them as “an addict looking for a fix?”
Let’s be honest: we’ve all been guilty of using language that sometimes falls short of our ideals. Whether it’s a casual remark in the hallway or a note hastily scribbled in a patient’s chart, stigmatizing language creeps into our vocabulary, often without us even realizing it.
Recent research has shed light on a concerning trend: approximately 85% of patients with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) are described using stigmatizing language in their medical records. Terms such as “abuser” or “addict” are regrettably prevalent, with an even more alarming disproportionate usage among Hispanic and Black patients. This information made me reflect on how often we inadvertently and commonly engaged in stigmatizing language about our patients.
The Impact of Stigma
Imagine yourself as a patient. When subjected to stigmatizing language, it fosters feelings of judgment and shame, creating barriers to open communication with the health care team. This, in turn, can result in delays in treatment, non-adherence to medication, and, ultimately, poorer health outcomes, mainly stemming from a breakdown in trust.
The Leader’s Role in Change
As imaging leaders, we must recognize the profound impact that language can have on patients’ perceptions of themselves and their treatment. Using stigmatizing language not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also erodes the trust and rapport essential for effective patient care.
Therefore, I urge each of us to encourage our teams to be mindful of the language we employ, whether verbally to patients, our colleagues, or even in our clinical documentation.
So, what can we do about it? Well, it starts with awareness and a commitment to change. Let us prioritize the use of person-first language, which respects the dignity and individuality of each patient.
Let’s break down some common stigmatizing examples and explore alternative, person-first language options:
- Replacing passive labels like “abuser” or “junkie” with phrases such as “the patient has an opioid use disorder.” This simple change humanizes the individual, focusing on their condition rather than defining their entire identity by it.
- Instead of “drug seeker,” try “person seeking pain relief.” This shift in language recognizes the individual’s primary need for relief from discomfort rather than casting judgment on their motivations.
- Rather than labeling patients as “clean” or “dirty,” let’s opt for “person in recovery.” This acknowledges their ongoing journey towards wellness and emphasizes support and encouragement rather than shame.
- Instead of “frequent flyer,” try “patient with frequent visits.”
- Instead of “psych patient,” use “person with mental health needs” or “individual receiving psychiatric care.” This respects the person’s privacy and dignity while acknowledging their health care needs.
- Avoid using terms like “difficult family” and use “family requiring additional support.” This recognizes the diverse circumstances and challenges that families may face without stigmatizing or labeling them.
- Instead of “dependency” or “addiction,” use terms like “medication use” or “substance use disorder.” This emphasizes the medical nature of the condition and reduces the likelihood of negative stereotypes.
Empowering a Culture of Empathy
It’s not just about changing words; it’s about changing attitudes and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding where every patient feels respected, understood and supported on their path to wellness. As imaging professionals, we are responsible for advocating for our patients’ well-being in every aspect of their care, including the language we use.
Leaders Taking Action
Imaging leaders can champion a culture shift by:
- Implementing person-first language training for staff.
- Holding discussions about respectful communication with patients and colleagues.
- Creating a zero-tolerance policy for stigmatizing language especially in patient records.
Incorporating these alternative language options into our daily practice can create a more compassionate and supportive environment for patients.
Build a Truly Inclusive Health Care System
The importance of person-first language extends beyond opioid use. Consider how language impacts patients with chronic illnesses, mental health conditions or disabilities.
Let’s work together to break down stigma and build a health care system that treats everyone with dignity, respect and compassion.
The future of patient care hinges on our commitment to creating a truly inclusive health care environment and that begins with us. Let’s cultivate this together, starting with the language we choose.
Every word has the power to heal or hinder; let’s choose to heal and empower.
Nicole Dhanraj, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, PMP, GPHR, CPSS, CRA, R.T(R)(CT)(MR), is an experienced imaging director.
