Decision support is a way to help your patients make important health care decisions that align with their personal goals and values. It is especially helpful for patients facing decisions about newly diagnosed conditions or chronic diseases. Patients may use the decision support tool below on their own or with your help. Patients may also contact a HealthPartners member advocate trained to coach them through this guide.
Decision support can be used for any health decision. Some examples include:
- Should I have surgery or physical therapy for knee pain?
- Do I continue working while I have chemotherapy?
- I need to do something about my low back pain – but what?
- Clarifying decisions and treatment options
- Identifying their values
- Recognizing things that influence the decision
- Planning for next steps
For more information about the Ottawa decision guide, visit the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute.