How do you include patient values in care decisions?
How do you include patient values in care decisions? This is a crucial question for patient advocates, who aim to empower and support patients in navigating the complex and often overwhelming health care system. Patient values are the preferences, beliefs, goals, and expectations that patients have about their health and well-being, and they may vary depending on their culture, background, religion, lifestyle, and personal experiences. Including patient values in care decisions means respecting and honoring the patient's autonomy, dignity, and voice, and ensuring that they are informed, involved, and supported throughout the process. In this article, we will explore some strategies and tools for including patient values in care decisions, and how they can benefit both patients and health care providers.
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Visible patient preferences:Displaying individual patient preferences prominently, such as on a whiteboard, keeps the whole care team aligned with what matters most to the patient. It's a simple way to ensure personalized care.
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Assess cultural context:Taking the time to understand a patient's cultural background can greatly influence the care provided. It fosters trust and ensures that treatment plans are respectful and appropriate.