Editor’s note: This Encore Presentation focuses on programs in pediatric medicine that provide good models for patient and family engagement throughout medicine. The post concludes with a list of five programs recognized as winners or finalists of the Sherman Award for Excellence in Patient Engagement. Nominations for the 2019 Sherman Award will open next month. […]
If you see something, say something. From the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, to local school districts, to The Joint Commission, organizations are encouraging everyone to speak up when something doesn’t seem right. How we each respond to that directive is highly individual and often unexamined. Most of the time, deciding whether and how to deliver […]
Exiled in a basement reading room, radiologists work alone intently, silently at computer screens that provide the only source of light – this stereotype casts radiology as one of the least person/patient-centered medical specialties. Although there is an element of truth in that stereotype, the radiology community is working to evolve into a patient-centered practice. […]
In a blog post about engaging patients in the process of purchasing electronic health record (EHR) systems, Jared Jeffery compares healthcare to auto repair: I don’t necessarily care what software my mechanic is using―I just want my car fixed. It’s the same for my healthcare! On further reflection, Jeffery changes his mind about that. He doesn’t […]
Editor’s note: In this Encore Presentation, Wendy Nickel describes how important it is to discuss the cost of care. Financial considerations are patient engagement discussions, too, and typically not easy for patients, families, or providers. On January 10th this year, my 12-year-old son experienced a concussion during basketball practice. I wasn’t there, but my husband was and […]
People write for different reasons: to examine experience, sharpen thinking, share lessons learned, advocate for others, and inspire action. In all cases, writing engages us in reflection and offers a way to engage with others. Health care social networks, like Inspire and Mayo Clinic Connect, encourage patients and caregivers to use writing and other media to engage by reflecting […]
Editor’s note: In this encore post, Michael Millenson writes candidly about the influence of personal feelings about race, ethnicity and gender on communication. In medicine, disparities and miscommunication impact patient engagement, as shown in a recent study reported in The New York Times. Millenson is often ahead of the curve on important issues in healthcare. We appreciate […]
Earlier this month, I wrote about a friend who went through a coronary stent procedure as an engaged patient. I talked with him frequently throughout the experience, supporting his instinct to ask questions and participate in decision-making. Looking back, we see our attempts at gathering information and educating ourselves as a mixed bag. This adventure […]
Being an engaged patient is a natural extension of my work in healthcare safety and quality, so when a friend was told he might need a coronary stent, I responded by searching for information and asking questions. I was glad to be able to help and to see my friend engaged in his care. In […]
Children often bring out the best in us. If we allow ourselves to meet them on their level, honor them for who they are, and communicate in whatever way – verbal or nonverbal – seems most effective and appropriate, the experience can be magical. That approach to engaging with others, adjusted appropriately for children and […]