Effective communication in a crisis – the role of the DIPC

Outbreaks of infection are scary for healthcare workers and the public alike. Good communication is key to reducing the fear and promoting the recovery strategy and its implementation.

The DIPC should be the public face of any outbreak and their leadership can inspire colleagues and engender confidence in the patients and public.

A clear communication strategy should be central to any outbreak recovery plan.  Maintaining an open and honest approach to the sharing of information is not always easy but should always be encouraged.

Dr Sara Mumford, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust