IHI.org - A resource from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement
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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 examinations are completed according to the guideline.
  3. Include "patient expectations" as part of all support groups 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.
  • Make follow-up calls (using the registry) to determine if the patient followed through.