In an increasingly complicated and, sometimes, chaotic healthcare setting, it is important for patients to actively participate in their own care and the care of loved ones. 

There are numerous traits viewed as important to experiencing a high quality of care. Highlighted below are some of the core indicators to determine if your health care provider is an effective practitioner of quality care.

Does your physician exhibit these behaviors?

1.      Listens to all symptoms before making a diagnosis.

2.      Is knowledgeable about the patient's condition; past and current status.

3.      Is very knowledgeable about diagnosis and current treatments; staying up to date on current medications and recent research.

4.      Encourages patients and family members to ask questions and participate in the care experience.

5.      Gives options for solving problems and suggests ways in which patient and family member can participate in care.

6.      Collaborates with patient and family member in seeking additional solutions.

7.      Volunteers information about agencies that provide additional services and knows how to access those services.

8.      Uses familiar terminology or carefully defines new terms; checks that patient and family member understands.

9.      Takes time and does not seem rushed.

10.  Follows through on care and outcomes.

Source: (This "Top Tens" and Checklist is adapted from Jeppson, E. Thomas, J. (1994). Essential Allies: Families as Advisors, courtesy of the Institute for Family-Centered Care, Bethesda, MD.