When it comes to medical treatment, especially for serious conditions like cancer, the most effective approach is one that aligns with the patient’s values and preferences. This personalized method not only respects the individual’s unique needs and beliefs but also significantly enhances the overall effectiveness and satisfaction with the care received. Here’s why incorporating patient values and preferences into treatment decisions is crucial and how it benefits both patients and healthcare providers.
Understanding the Difference Between Values and Preferences
Personal Values: These encompass a person’s core beliefs and principles that guide their decisions. They can include religious or spiritual beliefs, cultural practices, and personal priorities such as quality of life, independence, and family involvement.
Preferences: These are the specific choices a patient makes regarding their treatment options based on their values. Preferences can include the type of treatment they are willing to undergo, the setting in which they prefer to receive care, and their desired level of involvement in decision-making.
Benefits Aligning Treatment with a Patient’s Values and Preferences
1. Enhanced Patient Satisfaction
When treatments are aligned with a patient’s values and preferences, satisfaction with care increases. Patients feel respected and understood, which fosters a sense of trust and partnership with their healthcare providers. This positive relationship can make a significant difference in how patients perceive their treatment journey and its outcomes.
2. Improved Adherence to Treatment
Patients are more likely to adhere to treatment plans that reflect their personal values and preferences. When patients are involved in decision-making and feel their choices are considered and honored, they are more committed to following through with the treatments.
3. Better Health Outcomes
Research shows patient-centered care that incorporates individual values and preferences leads to better outcomes. Patients who are engaged in their care tend to have better management of their symptoms, fewer hospitalizations, and overall improved health.
4. Reduced Anxiety and Stress
Knowing that their wishes are respected and they have control over their care decisions helps patients feel more at ease and confident in their treatment plans.
5. Empowerment and Control
Patients who participate in treatment decisions feel more empowered and in control of their healthcare. This empowerment can enhance their mental and emotional well-being, making them more resilient in the face of their illness.
Implementing Patient-Centered Treatment
1. Effective Communication
Healthcare providers should prioritize clear, compassionate, and honest communication. This involves listening actively to the patient’s concerns, asking about their values and preferences, and providing information in an understandable manner. Encouraging open dialogue helps build a trusting relationship.
2. Shared Decision-Making
Shared decision-making is a collaborative process where healthcare providers and patients work together to make decisions about treatment options. This approach ensures that the patient’s values and preferences are central to the decision-making process. Tools like decision aids can be helpful in facilitating this process.
3. Personalized Care Plans
Develop personalized care plans that reflect the patient’s individual circumstances, values, and preferences. This might include considering alternative treatments that align better with the patient’s lifestyle or adjusting the frequency and type of follow-up care.
4. Involving Family and Support Systems
For many patients, family and close friends play a crucial role in their care. Involving these support systems in the treatment planning process can ensure that the patient’s preferences are upheld and that they receive the necessary support throughout their treatment journey.
5. Continuous Evaluation and Adjustment
Patient preferences and values may evolve over time, especially as they undergo treatment and experience changes in their health status. Continuous evaluation and adjustment of the treatment plan ensure that it remains aligned with the patient’s current needs and preferences.
Aligning medical treatment with patient values and preferences is not just a compassionate approach; it is a practical one that leads to better patient outcomes, increased satisfaction, and improved adherence to treatment plans. By understanding and honoring what matters most to patients, healthcare providers can deliver more effective, personalized care that truly meets the needs of those they serve.
MyCancerJourney can help bridge the gaps. Each MCJ advocate is well versed in oncology. They can help ensure the patient and their family understands their options, can articulate their values, and advocates for their preferences.
References:
- Institute of Medicine. (2011). Patient-Centered Cancer Treatment Planning: Improving the Quality of Oncology Care.
- American Cancer Society. (2023). Patient Preferences and Decision Making.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2022). Shared Decision Making.
