Patient control central to Choosing Wisely campaign

Patients in Wales are being urged to take more control of decisions about the care and treatments they receive, as part of a new medical movement.

Choosing Wisely Wales is about creating a more equal doctor-patient relationship, where clinicians are encouraged to have ‘open and honest conversations’ about treatments, with patients being less passive, having more input and exploring all alternatives.

The reason for such an idea is that if patients have ‘greater ownership over the care they receive, they are more likely to follow a course of treatment, reject treatments that have little benefit, and may be less likely to return to the doctor.

It is also hoped that the approach could help reduce the number of ‘unnecessary tests and treatments’, which could result in shorter waiting times for patients with a genuine need.

The approach, it has been argued, could also lead to significantly better results for patients, although sceptics are viewing it as an opportunity to cut costs.

Central to the idea are four questions a patient needs to ask: What are my options? How likely is it to harm or benefit me? Do I really need this? And what can I do to help myself?

Dr Paul Myres, programme leader and chairman of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges in Wales, said: "Amazingly, I think in Wales in particular there's still the idea that 'doctor knows best' and, interestingly, some clinicians who come to work here say patients are that little more passive, not so assertive. We're encouraging them to be a bit more questioning in discussions with their clinicians."

Choosing Wisely Wales is the first campaign of its type to be launched in the UK and is being led by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges Wales, in partnership with Public Health Wales and Community Health Councils.