Difficult conversations in medicine by elisabeth macdonald oxford university press 2004 pb gbp1995 231pp isbn 0 19 852774 8 the evolution of medical practice in the last several decades has made successful communica tion an increasingly important part of patient doctor interactions often fairly brief conversa tions must distil consider and lead to decisions about technically . Difficult conversations in medicine edited by elisabeth macdonald practical book on the importance of communication skills and how to handle difficult conversations in all branches of medicine patient centered approach to communication skills which promotes trust and confidence between participants. Difficult conversations in medicine good communication is the solution or part of the solution in nearly every difficult interpersonal situation whether between husband and wife supervisor and employee student and teacher or patient and physician. Difficult conversations in medicine difficult conversations in medicine having difficult holiday conversations about covid 19 december 9 2020 december is traditionally a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year