“What’s important to you? What can I answer to help you make the best decision about your care?” These are questions we may want to hear from our healthcare providers when discussing our care options.

When patients are invited to be more active participants in care decisions, they can gain knowledge and feel more confident in their health journeys. In this video, we explain what shared decision making in the doctor’s office is and conversations that doctors and patients can have to create a path forward together.

Shared decision making supports patient-centered healthcare and partnership between a patient and their provider. Conversations with your doctor can incorporate your values and preferences. Remember, there are two things you should get from your provider: 1) a diagnosis (or clear description of the problem if there isn’t a diagnosis available) and 2) a clear set of next steps or list of options for treatment.

We all deserve to feel heard at the doctor’s office and empowered with the right information.