FOR MANY PATIENTS, TREATMENT CONSIDERATIONS EXTEND BEYOND CLINICAL FACTORS
A successful treatment plan requires shared decision-making. As their urologist, you understand your patients may have challenges, even if they don’t always voice them. Here are some suggestions to help engage your patients in a meaningful dialogue about their care.
Sample opening dialogue
Treatment can be different for everyone. Tell me about your experience; there may be things we can do to help.
This approach acknowledges the patients’ strength and shows genuine concern, which can help them feel more at ease when discussing their experiences.
Sample conversation starters
- How have you been feeling? Have you noticed any changes or additional symptoms recently?
- What does a typical treatment day look like for you?
- What is your support system like at home?
- Are you concerned about how treatment might affect you or the people around you?
- Are you concerned about what happens if BCG isn’t right for you?
- What can I do to support you?