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Panel Presentation

Professional and Personal Development

Practice Makes Perfect: Difficult Conversations with Patients, Colleagues and Family Members Using RELATIONS

Tuesday, October 20, 2026
8:45 AM - 9:45 AM PT
Location: West Exhibit Hall A, Learning Zone 7
Disclosure(s):
James P. Oberman, MD, MBA, FACS:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

If you have ever had a “difficult patient,” broken bad news, bumped heads with a colleague or had tension with a family member, this session is your opportunity to learn and practice a communication strategy referred to as RELATIONS. Let’s face it, our busy academic and private practices have been stressed by numerous systemic challenges and as healthcare providers we often feel ill-equipped to communicate and connect effectively. Take from our toolbox to piece together a meaningful high-yield experience with peers that will change how you view tense interactions with the difficult patient, colleague and/or family member, transforming them from barriers to opportunities for connection and joy in the workplace and at home. Applicable to all skill types, backgrounds, and levels of experience in medicine and in life.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify factors in the healthcare environment that serve as barriers to healthy and effective communication
  • Discuss the effects of poor communication and lack of connection on patient outcomes and healthcare provider wellness.
  • Learn and practice RELATIONShip-centered communication skills that can be used to de-escalate difficult conversations with patients, colleagues and family members. Explore the impact of transforming the healthcare experience by recognizing and responding to emotions using RELATIONS.