Do You And Your Health Care Provider Mesh?

Are you satisfied with your health care provider? The Canadian Institute for Health Information recently reported that, for primary care at least, 76% of Canadians consider the quality received as excellent or very good. Nearly two-thirds said they always had time to discuss their feelings, fears and concerns. That’s good news, as a strong relationship with a care provider can be critical to positive health outcomes.

“People do better when they understand, participate in, and feel comfortable about the care they’re receiving,” says Ann Coghlan, president of the Federation of Health Regulatory Colleges of Ontario (FHRCO).

The best health consumer-provider relationships are often defined by five qualities:

• Expectations. Do both parties have the same objectives?

• Communication. Does the provider listen well, speak in terms you can understand, put you at ease, and respond to your questions?

• Attention. Do you feel like you’re a priority during an appointment?

• Involvement. Are you ready to share your experiences, learn about your health, and be an informed consumer?

• Trust. Do you have faith in your provider’s judgment and recommendations?

When issues arise in any relationship, it can be difficult to clear the air, perhaps more so when dealing with a care provider in an authority position. To resolve problems, try to: 1) let the provider know beforehand, if possible, what you intend to discuss, so he/she can think about the issue; 2) be specific about your concern; and 3) once you’ve each clearly stated your positions, look for common ground.

If you’re not getting anywhere, raise your concerns with your care provider’s supervisor or other staff at the facility (if applicable). And if you feel that your care is being compromised, contact the provider’s health regulatory college.

“Having the right fit with your health care provider is vital,” says Coghlan. “Failing to address a problem, from anxiety about a treatment to differences of opinion, could impact your care. So don’t be afraid to raise your wishes and concerns whenever you’re not satisfied.”

More information about the health regulatory colleges and how they protect you is found online at www.regulatedhealthprofessions.on.ca.

FHRCO comprises Ontario’s 26 health regulatory colleges, which govern over 260,000 health professionals.  The colleges support these professionals in providing the people of Ontario with safe, competent and ethical health care; and hold them accountable for their conduct and practice.