What is Getting the Most from your HealthCare Appointment
The “Getting the Most from your Healthcare Appointment” workshop was developed for the public by the South West Self-Management Program within the Thames Valley Family Health Team. This is an interactive workshop that focuses on what to do before, during and after an appointment and uses action planning to optimize people’s health. Healthcare appointments can be stressful for any patient. Research shows that patients forget 50% of the information shared during an appointment. Contributing factors include stress, too much information provided too quickly, unfamiliar medical terms and the patient’s confidence level. The evidence is clear, patients who have an active role in their healthcare are more satisfied, pursue timely and appropriate treatment and have a better quality of life.
What happens in the workshop?
This workshop is offered virtually via zoom platform and in-person in various locations in Toronto. This is a one session, 1 – 1.5 hour long interactive workshop facilitated by two trained individuals. A variety of learning resources are used including information sharing, videos, tools and a resource manual that supports the individual with integrating the skills into their next appointment. This workshop prepares and empowers individuals to communicate more effectively with their healthcare providers. Ultimately, patients are the most important members of their healthcare team. Communicating well with health care providers is one of the most important parts of getting good care however, it takes time and effort by both parties.
Who can attend?
Individuals over the age of 18 and are a resident of Toronto can attend this workshop. This workshop is highly interactive and participants should feel comfortable communicating and learning from others in a group setting.
Who leads the workshop?
The workshop is led by two trained individuals who have taken training from South West Self-Management Program to be able to deliver this workshop.
What language is this workshop offered?
This workshop is offered in English, Chinese and Hindi/Urdu.
What does it cost to attend?
There is no cost to attend this workshop. All participants must pre-register.
Who developed the program?
The Getting the Most from your Healthcare Appointment was originally developed by the South West Self-Management Program within the Thames Valley Family Health Team in 2013 with the goal to empower people to take an active role when working with their healthcare providers. The program was updated in January 2025.
Why is this important?
60% of adults have low health literacy skills including 88% of seniors. People with chronic disease spend an average 12 hours a year with a health care provider. The other 364 ½ days they manage on their own. Upon discharge, 1 out of 3 patients do not understand the answers to their questions.