I developed these based not on the many and varied interpretations of Person-Centred or Patient-Education, but on the commonalities of needs as humans. The intention is to foster satisfying and meaningful collaboration between patient and practioner.
I'm so pleased to say that these Guidelines (which have also been referred to as Rights) have been given thumbs up by the ICD (Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator) User Group and several WEGO Community Managers.
My background can be found on Ability4Life.com. Thanks for input from Colleen Young, Plain Language Expert, Elizabeth Sloss, Lawyer and Health Ethicist and Christine Stewart CTK Community Animator. Next step is a lit search: I know there's evidence to back many of these points. I'll also welcome any comments ;).
Kathy Kastner's Person-Centered Patient-Education Best Practice Guidelines
- Help me achieve my short and long-term goal.
- Make my needs and concerns a priority.
- Communicate clearly and use plain language.
- Treat me with understanding.
- Recognize I am being asked to learn about my condition without the benefit of medical training. Acknowledge the accomplishment this represents.
- Ask me how much I want to be involved in my treatment plan.
- Be sure we agree on what the next steps are for me and for the health care team.
- Know that I may need help understanding Informed Consent, Advanced Directives (Living Will) and Power of Attorney
- Consider my learning needs.
- Understand that this is a learning process for me; make sure I’m ready to hear you.
- When I’m ready, ask me how much I want to know: the minimum, on an as-needed-basis, or much as possible.
- Give me time to absorb what you’ve said.
- Ask what my learning preferences are (print, video, internet or all three) and give me suggestions for reliable, credible, evidence-based information sources.
- Recognize that the final say is mine.
- Encourage me to share with my community, and address their questions and concerns in a follow-up appointment.
- Help me understand what’s needed to achieve my goals and to help me manage my expectations.
- Recognize that the final say is mine.
- Respect my decision, even if it’s not what you would do or would recommend.
- Support my decision, or help me find someone who can.
