How can you encourage patients to take an active role in their care?

1 Communicate effectively

Communication is the foundation of patient engagement. You need to communicate clearly, empathetically, and respectfully with your patients, and listen to their needs, preferences, and feedback. You also need to provide them with accurate, relevant, and timely information about their condition, treatment options, and progress. Use simple and understandable language, avoid jargon and acronyms, and confirm their understanding. Use different modes of communication, such as verbal, written, visual, and digital, to suit different learning styles and preferences. Encourage your patients to ask questions, express concerns, and share opinions.

2 Educate and inform

Education and information are essential for patient engagement. You need to educate and inform your patients about their health, wellness, and self-care. You need to explain the benefits and risks of different interventions, the goals and expectations of their care plan, and the roles and responsibilities of each member of the care team. You also need to provide them with reliable and accessible resources, such as brochures, websites, apps, and videos, that can help them learn more about their condition and treatment. Educate and inform your patients in a way that is tailored to their level of health literacy, cultural background, and personal goals.

3 Collaborate and involve

Collaboration and involvement are key for patient engagement. You need to collaborate and involve your patients in the decision-making process, the care plan development, and the care delivery. You need to respect their autonomy, preferences, and values, and offer them choices and options that suit their needs and goals. You also need to involve them in the evaluation and feedback of their care, and acknowledge their contributions and achievements. Collaborate and involve your patients in a way that is supportive, respectful, and empowering.

4 Empower and motivate

Empowerment and motivation are crucial for patient engagement. You need to empower and motivate your patients to take charge of their health, wellness, and self-care. You need to help them identify and overcome barriers, such as fear, anxiety, lack of confidence, or lack of resources, that may prevent them from engaging in their care. You also need to help them set realistic and achievable goals, monitor and track their progress, and celebrate their successes. Empower and motivate your patients in a way that is positive, encouraging, and rewarding.

5 Support and connect

Support and connection are vital for patient engagement. You need to support and connect your patients with the appropriate resources, services, and networks that can help them cope with their condition and treatment. You need to provide them with emotional, psychological, social, and practical support, such as counseling, coaching, peer support, or financial assistance. You also need to connect them with other patients, caregivers, providers, or organizations that can offer them information, advice, or support. Support and connect your patients in a way that is compassionate, responsive, and inclusive.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?