Addressing the challenge of communicating uncertainty in diagnosis

This project aims to examine the critical role and impact of communication on the diagnostic process in health settings. Uncertainty in communication is pervasive in healthcare. Little is known about how health policy and practice affect linguistic expressions of uncertainty. This research expects to generate new knowledge of the influence of communication on the delivery of health services. Expected outcomes include practical communication strategies, advanced research methods in misdiagnosis, and enhanced research capacity in the health community. This should provide significant social, health and economic benefits by informing policy changes, and improving diagnostic communication and health services efficiency.