February is American Heart Month, which brings awareness about cardiovascular disease and saving lives. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Americans. Helping your patients understand and become active partners in their health can be essential in reducing their risk factors for heart disease.
Effective patient-provider communication allows discussions addressing the patient’s knowledge, behaviors and beliefs regarding their condition. This open communication exchange can result in shared decision-making that empowers the patient and helps healthcare practitioners in recommending the best plan of action.
Great health happens when patients feel empowered, knowledgeable, and supported by their healthcare practitioners. Strong health literacy skills are at the “heart” of this approach. Here are some ways you can improve the patient experience and build healthy partnerships with your cardiac patients that will promote healthy behaviors: