How to choose a treatment
You can follow these steps below to guide you.
Step 1: Clear your doubts
- Make sure that you understand your current condition and how it will change over time.
- Be familiar with all available treatment options.
- If anything is unclear, ask your doctor.
Step 2: Think about
- What is important to you?
- What are your values and treatment goals?
- Think about how involved you want to be in choosing a treatment.
Step 3: Discuss with your loved ones and doctor
- Share your thoughts with your loved ones and doctor.
- If making a treatment decision is too stressful, ask your loved ones
and doctor for help.
- You can choose someone to help you talk to your doctor. When there
are conflicts, this person can also speak on your behalf.
Step 4: After making a decision
Remember...
- It is important to make a timely decision. If no decision is made and your symptoms get worse, you may need emergency care and go through a treatment you do not want. So, plan ahead and choose a treatment in time.
- There is no right or wrong choice.
- You may be able to change your treatment if you wish. Talk to your loved ones and doctor about it.
- Caring for your health is an ongoing process. You don’t have to finish the conversation all at once.