‘It’s OK to Ask’ NHS urges Highlanders in new campaign
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It’s good to talk, a new NHS initiative is urging Highlanders in a bid to help patients be more involved in their treatment options.
NHS Highland is promoting NHS Scotland’s new ‘It’s OK to Ask’ campaign, which is seeking to encourage more open communication between patients and medical professionals.
The health board said the campaign aims to empower patients to take an active role in their healthcare journey, and it provides guidance to on how to ask questions about treatment options which then allows patients to be more involved and informed on the choices available.
The campaign centres around four key questions that patients should consider asking during a consultation or conversation about their health and care:
- What are the benefits of my treatment?
- What are the risks of my treatment?
- Any alternative treatments I can try?
- What if I do nothing?
Dr Kate Arrow, consultant anaesthetist and realistic medicine clinical lead for NHS Highland, said: “It is easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about our health and wellbeing.
“We live in a world where we are bombarded with health information; through social media, from friends and our health care services. It is common to feel a little lost, whether you are working to improve your own health, or navigating our health and social care systems.
“The ‘it’s ok to ask’ campaign provides guidance to on how to ask questions about treatment options which then allows patients to be more involved and informed on the choices available. It is a reminder that we, as individuals, have the right to ask questions, to seek clarification, and to participate in decisions concerning our health.
“We understand that asking questions about your treatment options can be overwhelming, intimidating, or even scary for some people. However, every question voiced is a step towards understanding and partnering in decisions about your own personal health. Whether it's seeking clarification on a medical diagnosis, exploring treatment options, or simply wanting to better understand preventive measures, every question asked is a step towards a healthier, more informed self.”
Dr John McAnaw, associate clinical director and head of pharmacy at NHS 24, explains how the campaign provides guidance for patients on how to communicate effectively with their healthcare team: “Asking questions about your treatment options while in a healthcare setting can be overwhelming, intimidating, or even scary for some people to do.
“The 'It's OK to Ask' campaign emphasises the importance of asking questions to make sure you fully understand what is going on with your care, and to make sure you are happy with your treatment plan. Our colleagues throughout the NHS are open to being asked questions such as these, and they encourage you to ask them when having a chat about your treatment options.
“If you are at all unsure about any aspect of your treatment, remember ‘It’s OK to Ask’ to help you make an informed choice about what will work best for you.”
To learn more about the 'It's OK to Ask' campaign and access resources for patients and healthcare professionals, visit NHS inform at www.nhsinform.scot/its-ok-to-ask/.
