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WMTM Supplemental Material

Here is the data from the What Matters To Me Paper.

Appendix 1. Questionnaire: Download What Matters To Me Questionnaire

 

Table. Demographic Data: Download What Matters To Me Demographics 11.17

 

Appendix 2. Graphs to Question Answers: Link to Google-Doc File.

 

Appendix 3.  Comments on the Questionnaire. Link to Google-Doc File.

What Matters To Me Questionnaire

This instrument is designed to help you communicate with your physicians and other care providers about what really matters to you in your relationships with the health care system.

Although one may not always get everything one wishes for, this is a chance to share your preferences and values with regards to the healthcare you receive.

When answering the questions it may be helpful to think of times you felt that your medical care needs were not met.

Please download and print out the questionnaire:
Download What Matters To Me Questionnaire 8.26.18

 

 

My Brief Trip to Cancerland

by Jennifer Weiner, NY Times Sunday Review, May 13, 2018

This is a helpful article for anyone diagnosed with “early cancer” (breast, prostate, non-melanoma skin cancer, melanoma and many other malignancies). The message is that physicians’ words can trigger fear in the patient that is out of proportion to the seriousness of the tumor. Often, the cancer may be treated more aggressively than is necessary.

Dr. Steven Katz, a University of Michigan researcher told the author: “The way we frame illness and the treatment options is the most important factor driving what happens next. And the cancer label is particularly profound.”

He also recommended getting a second opinion as, “There is time for just about any decision you make.” This, too, can be difficult and confusing. There are some decision aids available, but not necessarily enough.

What Matters To You

This is a helpful WMTY website. The following is from the BC branch website.  This page as a pdf: Download WMTM Questions

From a provider’s perspective, the question “What matters to you?” can be asked in many different ways.

If you are a patient or caregiver, prepare for your health care visits by reflecting on what matters to you. Try putting distracting sounds and thoughts to the side for just a moment. Think about what you are facing right now.

What is the most important thing that comes to mind that you wish your care team knew about you? If you are a family member of a patient, what comes to mind that you want the care team to know about you and your loved one who is being cared for?

You may want to bring written notes to a health care appointment as these can be helpful. And remember, you don’t need to wait to be asked! Take the initiative to tell your health care provider what matters to you.

The Skills You Need for “What Matters To You” Day:
Asking & Listening

• “What are the things that are important to you at the moment?”

• “What are some of the things you would like to achieve as a result of our work together?”

• “What can I do to best support you in your care today?”

• “When you have a good day, what are the things that make it good?”

• “Is there anything else you want to tell me that I haven’t asked you about?”

• “What are your goals and wishes today and how can I help you achieve them?”