Behind the knife Podcast: 7 Habits for Highly Effective Surgery Communication with Dr. Gretchen Schwarze

On this episode we are joined by Dr. Gretchen Schwarze, Associate Professor of Vascular Surgery at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.  Dr. Schwarze is an expert in surgical decision making, informed consent, advance directives, and end-of-life care, and in this episode we pick her brain for practical tips on how to talk to patients about surgery and end of life decisions.  Tune in to hear Dr. Schwarze’s 7 Habits for Highly Effective Surgery Communication, created just for Behind the Knife.  

 

1.     Be clear about the goal
2.     Stay away from anatomy and physiology
3.     Remember the downsides of surgery are more than just complications
4.     Help patients to anticipate and prepare
5.     Ask people about their hopes and fears
6.     Make a recommendation and show your work
7.     Attend to emotion

 

 

Behind the Knife Podcast: Best Case Worst Case Tool: Scenario Planning with Dr. Gretchen Schwarze

On this episode we talk about an extremely important topic – end of life care and decision making.  We are lucky to be joined by Dr. Gretchen Schwarze, Associate Professor of Vascular Surgery at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.  Dr. Schwarze is the creator of the Best Case Worst Case tool, an incredibly useful resource.  The Best Case Worse Case tool helps improve communication between older patients and their surgeons so that patients can avoid unwanted treatment and make decisions that align with their values, preferences, and goals.  As most of our listeners know, these conversations are not easy.  Tune in and learn how to do better.