ELKINS, WV–On June 6, Davis Medical Center professionals will be asking patients “What Matters to You”? “What Matters to You Day” aims to encourage and support more meaningful conversations between those who provide health care and the people and families who receive it.
Founders of the initiative say asking the question helps to establish a relationship and a greater understanding of the context of patient’s lives and things important to them.
“Understanding what matters to our patients keeps everyone involved in discussions and decisions, and will deliver better outcomes,” said Catherine Chua, DO, FAAFP, FMNM, Davis Health System Chief Medical Officer. “It’s important to us to commit to safe, patient-centered care.”
The “What Matters to You” question can be asked in different ways. For example: What are things that are important to you at the moment?, or What are some of the things you would like to achieve as a result of this care plan?
Open discussions with patients allow for more meaningful relationships between provider and patient according to Chua. “There’s more emphasis on healthcare as a two-way process. Patients are engaged in the decision-making process, and are encouraged to express their preferences based on their individual circumstances and expectations,” she said.
On June 6, DMC is hosting a Senior Health Day offering free health screenings and education from 8 AM until noon at their Outpatient Center in Elkins. Staff will be actively engaged in asking those who attend “what matters to you?”.
For more information about What Matters to You, visit www.whatmatterstoyou.scot.