Shared Decision Making
An increasing number of patients are wanting to know more about their healthcare choices. They are requesting information and the chance to have a say about their care and Shared Decision Making responds to this. Healthcare professionals at Wrightington Hospital use Shared Decision Making in order to involve patients as equal partners in their healthcare.
“Helping you become involved in your own healthcare decisions.”
Normally there will be choices to make about your healthcare. For example, you may be asked:
- To decide whether or not you want to have treatment.
- To choose between different types of treatment.
- If you want to continue with the same treatment.
“What you choose to do should depend on what is important to you.”
The staff involved in your treatment want to help you to become more active in your healthcare by giving you information about your options. They want to understand what is important to you. Knowing what’s important to you and providing you the appropriate information, will help them to help you make the best decision about your healthcare.
If you are asked to make a choice, you may have lots of questions that you want to ask. You may also want to talk over your options with your family or friends. It can help to write a list of the questions that you want answered and take it to your appointment.
Three Key Questions
To begin with, try to make sure you get the answers to three essential questions if you are asked to make a choice about your healthcare.
1. What are my options?
2. What are the pros and cons of each option for me?
3. How do I get support to help me make a decision that is right for me?
After you discuss your options, you may or may not be ready to make a decision. This is okay. Let your healthcare professional know if you need more time. If you would like more information about your options, please ask.
