The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) continues to enhance its global reputation through significant contributions to the field of couple and family therapy. A recent highlight in this endeavor was the participation of faculty members Dr. Sara Jordan and Dr. Vaida Kazlauskaite, along with a select group of students from the program, at the prestigious 2026 Oslo Communication in Healthcare Education and Research (OCHER) Conference, held in Oslo, Norway.
The OCHER Conference serves as a vital platform for healthcare professionals, educators, and researchers to share innovative ideas and research findings aimed at improving communication within healthcare settings. This year’s conference gathered experts from around the world, focusing on the integration of effective communication strategies into healthcare practices—a critical area that can significantly impact patient outcomes.
Dr. Jordan and Dr. Kazlauskaite each presented compelling topics that align with current challenges faced in the healthcare sector. Their presentations included “Crafting Helpful Formulations for Working with Patient Suicidal Ideation,” which addressed the intricacies of effectively communicating with patients experiencing suicidal thoughts. This presentation highlighted the importance of creating sensitive and supportive dialogues that facilitate open discussions about mental health.
Another notable presentation was “Operationalizing the Traits of Narcissism in Dialogue: Tools for Healthcare Providers.” This session provided practical tools for healthcare professionals to better navigate interactions with narcissistic patients, ensuring that they can provide empathetic and effective care. Such strategies are essential for fostering a therapeutic environment where patients feel understood and respected, despite the complexities of their personalities.
Finally, the presentation titled “Empathetic Medical Dialogues: Tips for Healthcare Workers” emphasized the critical role of empathy in medical communication. The ability to convey understanding and compassion can significantly improve patient compliance and satisfaction, allowing healthcare providers to establish trust and rapport.
The participation of the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at such a renowned international conference not only underscores the institution’s commitment to advancing healthcare education but also reflects a growing recognition of the integral role of communication in effective clinical practice. By engaging in discourse on these essential topics, Dr. Jordan, Dr. Kazlauskaite, and their students are contributing to the evolution of healthcare communication strategies on a global scale, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and therapeutic outcomes.
