Response to Heather Brokaw

Hello Heather,

It was a captivating discussion on the aspect of discharge plan and how it will reduce readmission. I like the way you have illustrated how the patient can promote his own health though involvement. Bastiaens et al (2007) explains that actively involving patients in their care improves not only their experiences but their outcome. Hence, involving the patient actively to promote his health against high blood pressure through more personalised commissioning and support will manage their condition and reduce readmission. I noted your point on the significance of providing a patient with a platform to ask question about their health. Most of the times we leave patients stranded and they lack courage to probe. Which strategies do you use to empower patients in managing their illness?

Reference

Bastiaens, H., Van Royen, P., Pavlic, D. R., Raposo, V., & Baker, R. (2007). Older people’s preferences for involvement in their own care: a qualitative study in primary health care in 11 European countries. Patient education and counseling, 68(1), 33-42.