Evidence-based Patient Choice

This books focus is on the decisions taken in consultations between health care patients and professionals. Clinician- patient partnerships in health care decisions are increasingly advocated. Evidence- based patient choice describes a model of health care in which the evidence-based approach can integrate with the promotion of consumer choice. The book examines the traditional approach and the changing experience and expectations of consumers. It describes with manyclinical examples and patient narratives how to practice evidence-based patient choice, and explores the ethical, sociological and economic issues raised. It also addresses the future modifications to professional training and organisational change which are required if evidence-based patient choice is to becomethe norm and speculates about what is likely to be achieved in the next few years. The book provides a summary of current perspectives in this area, which will be of interest to consumers, their representative groups, and to professionals in practice and training alike. From the foreword by Richard Grol:: An enormous challenge lies before us. In this new and challenging field Evidence-based patient choice is manna from heaven. It summarises the current state of knowledge about thesenew patient involvement approaches. It is by far the most comprehensive account of scientific and ethical thinking about patient choice at this moment. And, it manages to show us the way to a potential future:: health care provision where patients and professionals operate as real partners with sharedgoals...