IHI.org - A resource from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement
Header Image






Decision Support:
Educate Patients About Guidelines
    1. Develop "patient-friendly" guideline handouts or wallet cards and distribute them to patients.
    2. Have providers reinforce patient expectations: clarify the patient's role in making sure recommended tests and exams are completed according to the guideline.
    3. Include "patient expectations" as part of all support groups, health fairs, and public presentations.

Tips
  • Survey patients about their knowledge of disease processes.
  • Be sensitive to the cultural environment of the patient and family.
  • Post information about guidelines in the clinic lobby and other public places.
  • Provide a script for the providers to explain patient expectations.
  • Make follow-up calls (using the registry) to see if the patient followed through.