Unexamined assumptions about patients may lead to which outcome?

• A. Depersonalized care
• B. Missed concerns, incomplete histories, and depersonalized care
• C. Improved communication
• D. Shorter visits

Answer: (B)

Unexamined assumptions about patients bias how we listen and what we prioritize, which undermines a patient-centered approach. When biases go unchecked, we may shortcut questions, overlook what truly matters to the patient, and assume we already know their priorities or barriers. That leads to missed concerns because we aren’t fully exploring the patient’s experiences, fears, or goals. It also results in incomplete histories since important details— psychosocial factors, past treatments, and personal circumstances—aren’t elicited. The care then becomes depersonalized, as the patient is treated more like a condition or chart entry than as a person with individual values and goals.

By actively checking our assumptions, we keep the patient at the center, use person-first language, and ask open-ended questions to uncover concerns and preferences. This supports a complete history, clearer communication, and a collaborative plan that aligns with the patient’s goals.