Free Programs for Patients and Their Families

1 - 2 Hour Programs

These programs, offered in partnership with co-sponsoring organizations, may be presented individually or condensed into one session (covering the essentials of each in a more limited fashion). They  are generally presented as interactive lectures. If preferred, they can be presented as workshops, with group discussions and other experiential activities. 

PROGRAM #1
Patients as Partners:
Moving From Passive to Active Participants in Decisionmaking

DESCRIPTION
Many healthcare organizations and other patient advocates are calling upon patients to take an active part in the decisionmaking process. This program will begin to address the why, what, when and where questions that are raised by this advice. The program will:
  • Look at patients’ expectations of healthcare professionals,
  • Outline what it means for patients to be active partners in their healthcare,
  • Provide guidelines for deciding when it is, and is not, important to take an active role, and
  • Review ways to build health partnerships

PROGRAM #2
Patients as Partners:
Talking With Doctors and Other Healthcare Professionals

DESCRIPTION
Through discussions and practice, this program will seek to help patients build skills necessary for their participation in decisionmaking. Topics covered will include how to:
  • Get information and find out if that information really pertains to them
  • Talk with doctors and other health professionals in ways that share control of the discussion, and
  • Negotiate treatment decisions

PROGRAM #3
Families and Friends as Advocates:
Helping Those Who Are Seriously Ill

DESCRIPTION
One recognized view of patient advocates is that they speak on behalf of particular patients, making sure that the patient’s physical and medical needs will be met. This program will look at that and another aspect of advocacy: providing emotional support for these patients and helping them maintain a sense of self worth. Topics covered will include how to:
  • Provide emotional support through active listening
  • Help patients make their own decisions (where possible)
  • Figure out what decisions to make on behalf of patients who can’t make their own decisions (for authorized surrogate decisionmakers)

Organizations interested in information about co-sponsoring these or other programs, click here.

15 - 20 Minute Presentations

We offer speakers and topical handouts (when available) to self help & support groups; senior citizens & service clubs; and other community organizations within our service area.  Topics include, but are not limited to, the following.

  • Getting the Most Out of Doctor Visits

  • Negotiating Treatment Decisions
  • Managing Medications
  • Managing Surgery
  • Managing Hospital Stays
  • Using & Being Patient Advocates
  • Preparing Advance Directives
  • How to Assert Yourself and Build Trusting Relationships
  • Communication and the Cost of Care
  • How to Speak to In-Patient Staff on Behalf of Loved Ones

For more information about these topics or to request a speaker, click here.