Able Quote by Anna Deavere Smith
“We would like doctors to listen, but the fact is, we better be ready to be able to talk to them. You're going to have to be an active participant in that conversation, so I'd say the American people are going to need ways of stepping up to the conversation.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Health Communication, 2020, United States
Effective healthcare requires patients to actively engage and communicate with doctors, not just passively receive advice.
In simple terms: Patients must speak up in medical visits.
Key Takeaway
Take charge of your health conversations.
Themes
healthcare
communication
patient empowerment
active listening
responsibility
Mood
encouraging
empowering
optimistic
Type
advice
motivational
educational
When to use this quote
- medical appointments
- telehealth sessions
- patient education workshops
- support groups
Key Concepts
patient advocacy
shared decision making
health literacy
doctor‑patient relationship
Questions to Reflect On
- What barriers prevent patients from speaking up?
- How can doctors foster a more collaborative dialogue?
A Different Perspective
Some patients may lack confidence or resources to engage fully.
