As a generic process, communication is a two-way process between two or more persons by which information and feelings are shared through an exchange of verbal and nonverbal messages.
Effective communication in palliative care is instrumental in the development of the therapeutic relationship that should exist between patient/families and the caring team; its importance to reduce uncertainties and clarify issues is well recognized by health personnel working in this practice area.
In an atmosphere of effective communication, patients improve faster, cope better with pain, have less anxiety, require less psychotropic drugs, have increase situational control, and experience numerous other health benefits that promote quality of life.

Adapted from Andrzej Wojtczak. Glossary of Medical Education Terms. AMEE Occasional Paper No 3. Internet. Accessed on August 29, 2017.