IOM describes themes relating to patients' role in health care

(HealthDay)—Themes and messages relating to the role of patients in informed care decisions, knowledge generation, and value improvement were discussed at the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) Workshop Proceedings, according to a report published Aug. 15 in conjunction with the transcript of the proceedings.

The IOM's Roundtable on Value & Science-Driven Health Care convened a workshop in February 2013, where 31 speakers discussed the role of patients in bringing about progress in all aspects of the U.S. health care system as well as the importance of patient engagement in achievement of best care at lower cost.

Several sessions explored informed shared care decisions, and noted that patients want to be partners in their health; that strong leadership can promote culture change, allowing shared decision making to become part of routine practice; and that training can help patients and clinicians engage in shared decision making. The importance of knowledge generation was also discussed. Speakers noted that various incentives can promote data sharing, effective clinical communication strategies can assist, and information feedback loops can apply lessons learned from the patient experience. However, patients want to be asked about using their data. In sessions related to value, speakers noted that patients look for choices they can easily and immediately understand and choose care tailored to their preferences; they also noted that incentive feedback loops are a part of the care process and paying for health care is a social decision.

"The discussions highlighted the critical role and capacity for patients and families to be leaders in informed care decisions, knowledge generation, and value improvement," according to the report.