Approaches to Strengthen Patient and Family Engagement

Healthcare practices can adopt the following approaches to build trust, promote shared responsibility, and empower patients in their care:

• Train staff in motivational interviewing to promote patient-led behavior change through compassionate, culturally sensitive conversations.

• Develop shared care plans that reflect each patient’s personal goals, cultural values, and treatment preferences.

• Use evidence-based decision aids to clearly communicate the risks and benefits of treatment options, especially in conditions where choices depend on patient preference.

• Routinely share test results with patients in a timely and transparent way, with plain-language explanations and visual aids as needed.

• Engage patients, families, and caregivers in care planning and goal setting—ensuring that priorities are documented in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).

• Incorporate self-management support into standard care using tools like goal setting, Teach Back, action planning, and motivational interviewing.

• Assess readiness for self-management using validated tools like the Patient Activation Measure or “How’s My Health,” and tailor support accordingly.

• Collaboratively set a visit agenda before appointments so patients can share what matters most to them.

• Provide care coaching between visits to help patients stay on track with their care goals and answer ongoing questions.

• Facilitate peer-led support groups where patients can connect, learn from each other, and build confidence in managing chronic conditions.

• Host group visits for patients with shared conditions (e.g., diabetes), combining education with a sense of community.

• Connect patients to chronic disease self-management programs within the practice or through trusted community partners.

• Train staff in patient-centered goal setting to foster consistency and empathy across the care team.

• Standardize action planning and follow-up so that the entire care team can support each patient’s progress.

• Educate patients and families about healthcare transformation using clear, jargon-free language, visuals, and culturally appropriate materials.

• Ensure each patient leaves with a printed or digital care plan, reinforcing their role as an informed partner in their health journey.

What Our Members Are Doing

Some of our members are leading by example—like one that created monthly patient and family discussion groups. These sessions offer a safe space to discuss health conditions, share experiences, and support one another.