A new national campaign has been launched to support patients and healthcare professionals in creating positive conversations about care and treatment.
‘It’s OK to ask’ encourages patients to ask health professionals four questions at their appointment:
1. What are the benefits of my treatment?
2. What are the risks of my treatment?
3. Are there other treatments I can try?
4. What if I do nothing?
Dr Babu Mukhopadhyay, clinical lead for realistic medicine in Lanarkshire, said: “These questions facilitate open and helpful conversations with patients.
“It is important that fellow healthcare professionals are aware of this campaign as the people under their care may ask these questions.”
Realistic Medicine puts the person receiving health and care at the centre of decision-making and encourages a personalised approach to their care.
Research shows only one in three patients prepare questions to ask at their appointment, and as a result may leave a consultation unclear on the importance and impact of taking a prescribed medication, or without a clear understanding of the options they have for shaping or managing their own healthcare.
Babu added: “This national campaign aims to encourage patients to take time to consider what they need to know in advance of any upcoming appointment so they can feel confident and empowered in their healthcare plan.”
