Communicating with Health Care Providers Adapted from materials

Communicating with Health Care Providers Adapted from materials of National Family Caregivers Association §

Learning Objectives n Understand the unique role of the caregiver in the healthcare team n Demonstrate how good communication leads to better health care n Know how to prepare for doctor office visits n Develop strategies to establish rapport/collaborate with healthcare providers

Value of Good Communication n Shared Decision-Making n Eases Time Limitations n Clears Misunderstandings and Confusion n Encourages Professionals to be More Responsive

Barriers to Communication n Patient Focus n Time Limitations n Lack of Team Approach n Mechanistic Approach n Lack of Conflict Resolution Skills n Stressful Work Habits

Suggestions From Health Care Professionals n Enhance Communication n Support Treatment Plans n Please Respect Our Limits

The Caregiving Team Care Recipient Family Caregiver Caregiving Team Specialist Primary Doctor Nurse

Establish Presence n Breathe Deeply n Make Eye Contact n Stay in the Moment n Establish Rapport n Maintain a Strong Sense of Self

Participate Actively n Be Prepared n Clearly State Your Purpose n Offer Relevant Information n Ask Questions n Be Assertive

Levels of Assertiveness Match how assertive you are to the situation Assertiveness (High Profile) Issue an Ultimatum Set Limits of Acceptance Offer a Win/Win Compromise Clearly State What You Want Recommend a Solution Suggest Alternatives Ask for Alternatives Ask Questions Provide Feedback Listen Actively (Low Profile) Understanding

Build Mutual Understanding n Use Active Listening n Ask for Clarification n Demonstrate Understanding n Avoid Assumptions n State Difficulties and Concerns

Encourage Collaboration n Focus on Common Goals n Clarify Responsibilities n Speak Openly and Honestly n Help with Problem Solving n Express Appreciation for Help

Resources For Caregivers § § § Call § 2 -1 -1 throughout Texas. Provides information and access to health and human service information for all ages § 1 -800 -252 -9240 to find local Texas Area Agency on Aging § 1 -800 -677 -1116 - Elder Care Locator to find help throughout the U. S. Online § www. benefitscheckup. org for an online way to determine benefits for which someone qualifies. To schedule a caregiver presentation in your community at your church, business, library, or other § Contact Zanda Hilger, (817) 581 -5890 or zanda@flash. net To find this and other information quickly Go online to: www. familycaregiversonline. net online education, resources, links, FAQs

www. familycaregiversonline. net