How has the patient’s control over his own health care changed? Using 200-300 words APA format with at least two references. Sources must be published within the last 5 years. There should be a mix between research and your reflections. Add critical thinking in the posts along with research. Apply the material in a substantial way.
The patient’s control over their own healthcare has evolved significantly over the past few decades. In the traditional healthcare model, patients were often seen as passive recipients of medical interventions, with healthcare professionals making all the decisions regarding their care. However, in recent years, there has been a paradigm shift towards patient-centered care, where patients are actively involved in making decisions about their own healthcare.
One significant factor that has contributed to the increase in patient control over healthcare is the growth of the internet and the availability of online health information. Patients now have easy access to a vast amount of medical knowledge and resources, enabling them to educate themselves about their health conditions, treatment options, and outcomes. They can research treatment alternatives, access evidence-based guidelines, and participate in online support communities to share experiences and gain insights from others facing similar health challenges.
This increase in patient access to information has empowered individuals to take an active role in their care. They are now more likely to engage in shared decision-making with their healthcare providers, where both parties collaborate to determine the best treatment approach. Patients can discuss their preferences and values, and healthcare professionals can provide evidence-based recommendations, resulting in a more personalized and tailored treatment plan.
Moreover, patients now have more choices in their healthcare providers and services. The rise of telehealth and digital health platforms has expanded access to medical professionals, allowing patients to seek second opinions or access specialists who may be geographically distant. This increased availability of options empowers patients to seek out the best care for their specific needs and preferences.
Another aspect contributing to patient control over healthcare is the shift towards patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in research and clinical practice. PROs are assessments of patients’ perspectives on their own health and functional status, typically collected using questionnaires. By incorporating PROs into routine care, healthcare providers gain valuable insights into patients’ experiences, enabling them to better understand their needs and preferences. This emphasis on patient-reported outcomes ensures that care is not solely based on clinical measurements but also takes into account the patient’s individual goals and priorities.
Furthermore, legislative changes and policy shifts have also played a role in empowering patients and giving them more control over their healthcare decisions. Informed consent regulations, for example, require healthcare professionals to provide patients with comprehensive information regarding their treatment options, potential risks, and benefits. This enables patients to make informed decisions about their care, ensuring that their preferences are respected.
In conclusion, the patient’s control over their own healthcare has significantly evolved in recent years. Factors such as increased access to health information, expanded choices in healthcare providers, the emphasis on patient-reported outcomes, and legislative changes have all contributed to this shift. Patients are now more actively involved in decision-making, participating in shared decision-making with their healthcare providers. This shift towards patient-centered care allows for more personalized and tailored treatment approaches, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
References:
1. Association of American Medical Colleges. (2016). Core entrustable professional activities for entering residency: Curriculum developer’s guide. Retrieved from https://members.aamc.org/eweb/upload/Core%20EPA%20Curriculum%20Dev%20Guide.pdf
2. Institute of Medicine. (2001). Crossing the quality chasm: A new health system for the 21st century. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press.