It may seem strange now, but there was a time when patients were not always included in their health decisions. “Doctor Knows Best” was the mood – and the practice. Would you believe that it used to be routine that patients were not told what their diagnosis was? Health service providers (HCPS) or family members often made treatment decisions without saying or even asking the patient.
Unfortunately, this still happens, but luckily it is no longer the norm.
The joint decision -making is a process in which HCPS and patients work together to make decisions in the healthcare system. HCPS could provide research and data on medication or procedures, and patients can provide their priorities and goals. The two parties work together to make a decision on how to proceed.
The common decision -making in healthcare shows the respect for the needs and values of the patients. And it also has other advantages. The inclusion of patients in their decisions in the healthcare system can help people to have control, make it easier and more likely to follow the plan for their treatment and to reduce the fear that is often associated with the need for medical care.
Even if there are now laws to involve patients more, it can still be difficult for patients to make their preferences known. Many patients – especially women and people in traditionally marginalized communities – are worried that they are classified as difficult if they address or ask too many questions. Some people fear insulting their HCP if they express their opinion. And many people feel unprepared or unrestricted to have a say in their treatment options. HCPs are often rushed and may not always have the feeling that they can take the time to exchange information and bring in to the patient. If you don’t take this time, it can be easier and faster for the HCP, but it can let the person out of the loop and rob them of their power.
Who is together for decision making?
The short answer is that common decisions are for everyone. There are emergency situations in which HCPs have to act without consulting the patient. Your life can depend on your fast action and know-how, and you can literally not be able. In these cases, it probably doesn’t matter to give up their share in the decision -making process.
But in many other cases, including some urgent situations, patients should have a voice in their care. For example, if you manage a chronic illness or receive a serious diagnosis, you will probably have options for the treatment you receive. If an operation could help you, but also introduce risks, you should be part of the decision to go forward or not.
Even if there is a clear standard treatment and it does not need so much discussion, people have personal preferences and unique priorities. How much risk does a person want to have a chance to get better? Are you ready to tolerate side effects? Are there other considerations in your life that can change the equation for you? Some people can choose physiotherapy because of a knee injury, while others can choose an operation. A woman with multiple sclerosis (MS) can choose therapy that is most effective for you, but has a higher risk of side effects. Someone else may be more concerned about the side effects and can make a different treatment decision. If possible, HCPS should speak to you to ensure that your treatment reflects your wishes and preferences.
This is how you use joint decisions to get better health care
If your HCP makes joint decisions with you, be ready to use your voice. And if your HCP does not approach you to take part in decision -making, you can take the first step. You can even say: “I want to make sure that I understand my options completely before we go forward.” This signals to your HCP that you are a committed patient and you have to work with you in your health care.
Here are some tips for joint decision -making to get the best care:
- Bring a list of questions so that you can be sure that you cover everything you would like to pass during the visit.
- Ask the risks, advantages and disadvantages of any treatment option.
- Ask which options for other people tend and why.
- Ask how treatment options can affect things that are important to you. For example, if you want to maintain an active lifestyle or get pregnant, make sure that your HCP knows and explains how any treatment would affect these aspects of your life.
- Find out what your HCP recommends. You can trust your HCP and still want to have the feeling that you make a fully well -founded decision for yourself.
- Ask what will probably happen if you do not advance your recommendation.
- Explore your condition and treatment options with credible sources so that you can find out well in the conversation.
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