Communication Competencies Across Health and Social Care

This chapter will provide examples of therapeutic communication from the perspective of multiple disciplines. Students/learners will have an opportunity to explore entry level competencies and requirements for a variety of disciplines.

Entry Level Competencies and Registration Requirements

Client-provider communication is a foundational skill for all students/learners in health and social care provider post-secondary programs (see Table 1). Whether considered a competency or a registration requirement, communication remains an essential skill linked to client-patient safety and quality client-patient care interactions (Campbell, et al., 2022, p.9).

Professional communication is an essential element in building a trusting client relationship in healthcare. Being an effective and appropriate communicator is a critical professional competency required for the safety and well-being of our clients (see Table 1). The integration of communication competencies across all health and social care professions contributes to the improvement of client care and treatment, resulting in more positive health outcomes.

Table 1. Entry Level Competencies by Profession/Discipline