It may seem strange now, but there was a time when patients were not always included in their medical care decisions. “Doctor knows better” was the atmosphere, and practice. Would you think it used to be routine so that patients did not tell them what their diagnosis was? Medical care providers (HCP) or family members often made treatment decisions without counting or even asking the patient.
This still happens unfortunately, but, fortunately, it is no longer the norm.
Shared decision making is a process in which PCs and patients work together to make medical care decisions. HCP can provide research and data on medicines or procedures, and patients can provide their priorities and objectives. The two parties work together to get to a decision on how to proceed.
The decision -making in medical care shows respect for the needs and values of patients. And it also has other benefits. Involving patients in their medical care decisions can help people feel in control, make it easier and more likely to follow the plan for their treatment and decrease anxiety that often accompanies the need for medical care.
Although there are now laws to require patients more, it can still be difficult for patients to publicize their preferences. Many patients, especially women and people in traditionally marginalized communities, can worry about being labeled as difficult if they speak or ask too many questions. Some people fear offending their HCP if they express their opinions. And many people feel not prepared or not qualified to have a voice in their treatment options. HCP are often hurried and do not always feel that they can make time to share information and embed the patient. Not taking that time can be easier and faster for HCP, but you can leave the person off the loop and steal their power.
Who is shared decision making?
The short answer is that shared decision making is for everyone. There are emergency situations in which HCPs have to act without consulting the patient. Your life may depend on your fast action and experience, and you may literally be able to evaluate. In those cases, he probably does not mind giving up his part of the decision -making process.
But in many other cases, even some urgent situations, patients must have a voice in their care. For example, if you are handling a chronic condition or obtains a serious diagnosis, you probably have options for the treatment you receive. If surgery could help you, but also introduces risks, it must be part of the decision to advance or not.
Even when there is a clear standard treatment and there is not so much need for discussion, people have personal preferences and unique priorities. How much risk does a person want to run to improve? Are you willing to tolerate side effects? Are there other considerations in your life that can change the equation for them? Some people can choose physiotherapy for a knee injury, while others can choose surgery. A woman with multiple sclerosis (EM) can choose a therapy that is more effective for her but has a higher risk of side effects. Someone more may be more concerned about side effects and can make a different treatment decision. Whenever possible, HCP must talk to you to make sure your treatment reflects your wishes and preferences.
How to use shared decision making to obtain better medical care
If your HCP is dedicated to decision -making with you, get ready to use your voice. And, if your HCP does not approach you to share decision making, you can take the first step. You can even say: “I want to make sure my options completely understand before moving forward.” That will indicate to your HCP that you are a committed patient and that you should associate with you in your health decision.
Here are some tips to participate in shared decision making to obtain the best attention:
- Bring a list of questions so you can be sure to cover everything you would like to pass during the visit.
- Ask about the risks, pros and cons of each treatment option.
- Ask what options tend to choose other people 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 want to get pregnant, make sure your PS knows and explain how any treatment would affect those aspects of your life.
- Discover what your HCP recommends. You can trust your HCP and you still want to feel that you are making a completely informed decision by yourself.
- Ask what probably happens if you don’t advance with your recommendation.
- Investigate your condition and treatment options using credible sources so that you are well informed in the conversation.
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