Empathy as an essential component in the practice of medicine

Abstract

Effective communication regarding the physician-patient relationship and empathy in an emergency setting is paramount for optimal care. In this regard, teaching intangible skills such as empathy to medical students as part of the formal curriculum should be considered accordingly. Teaching and evaluating intangible skills are essential competencies to be fostered by any practicing doctor, and their insufficiency as required skills may lead to better patient outcomes and patient satisfaction. In this letter, our primary focus is on empathy as an essential component in medical education and its development in emergency settings.