
← Marketing Tips for Doctors16 sept · 22 min
The Angry Patient
TMS235-The-Angry-Patient
In this episode, we cover:
Why trying to “win” an argument with an angry patient almost always costs you the relationship.
Exact phrases to use when a patient is furious about wait times, bills, or feeling dismissed.
The five-step reset for de-escalating anger: Listen, Acknowledge, Clarify, Respond, Follow through.
How to respond when a patient threatens to sue or leave a scathing online review—without violating privacy rules.
The three sentences every staff member should know to lower the temperature and reopen communication.
Key Takeaway Quote:
“Your goal is not to win the argument. Your goal is to understand the experience. Because you can be technically correct and still completely lose the patient.” – Dr. Barbara Hales
Connect with Barbara Hales:
Twitter: @DrBarbaraHales
Facebook: facebook.com/theMedicalStrategist