What is Realistic Medicine?
Realistic Medicine is an approach to healthcare that aims to put the patient at the centre of decisions about their care. Shared decision making and a personalised approach to care are key elements of practicing Realistic Medicine. Realistic Medicine is relevant to all patients, health and social care professionals.
Why do we need Realistic Medicine?
Realistic Medicine will help to improve the NHS and the care and treatments it offers by:
- Reducing harm, waste and unwarranted variation.
- Providing a personalised approach to care.
- Shared decision making between health professionals and patients.
- Collaborative work between health professionals to avoid duplication and provide a joined up care package that better meets your needs and wishes.
How does it affect me?
Realistic Medicine encourages shared decision making about your care. Your doctor or health professional should understand what matters to you personally and what your goals are. You are encouraged to ask questions about your condition and the possible care/treatment offered.
Asking the right questions
It’s OK to ask
When you are attending an appointment it is important to remember that it’s OK to ask questions about your treatment options. When you understand what’s going on with your health, you can make better decisions around your care and treatment.
As the person receiving care you should always be at the centre of decision-making but we know that many patients don’t feel able to ask questions during their appointment meaning that they leave the consultation unclear on the importance or impact of taking a prescribed medication, or without understanding the options available to shape and manage their own healthcare.
It’s important to know what’s going on with your own healthcare and by being more involved, you’ll be able to make better decisions about your own care and treatment.
Knowing the right questions to ask can make all the difference.
Research shows only one in three patients prepare questions to ask at their appointment.
To help you get the most out of your next appointment and feel better informed, here are four key questions it’s worth remembering to ask:
What are the benefits of my treatment?
Your healthcare professional will be able to explain why they think a certain treatment would be the best option for you compared to other treatments available.
What are the risks of my treatment?
Your healthcare professional will be able to explain the risks or possible side effects of your treatment and reassure you about any concerns you may have.
Are there any alternative treatments I can try?
Your healthcare professional will be able to outline any alternative treatments that may be available to you.
What if I do nothing?
Your healthcare professional can explain what may happen if you choose not to go ahead with your planned treatment
Meet the Realistic Medicine Team
Dr Peter O’Brien
Consultant ICM & Anaesthetist
Realistic Medicine Lead – Secondary Care
Dr Stacey Anderson
GP
Realistic Medicine Lead – Primary Care
Linda Heppenstall
Realistic Medicine – Programme Management Team
Sustainability and Realistic Medicine
In the CMO’s 2020 to 2021 Annual report he comments how achieving Scotland’s climate goals and Realistic Medicine fit naturally together. NHS Ayrshire and Arran continues to work towards being a greener and more sustainable healthcare provider. We will aim to keep you up to date on what work is being done in this area across our healthboard.
For further information download our sustainability (pdf).