On June 6, ask a patient, “What matters to you?” It can help you understand the patient in the context of their own life and what is important to them. You may already be doing this in your practice. Watch the video below for more information on “What Matters to You?” Day.

Benefits of asking

What Matters to You? Scotland describes a few answers that patients have given when they’ve been asked what matters to them.

• “I like to receive the medication that manages my Alzheimer’s at the time I always take it at home rather than at drug rounds.”
• “It’s really important to me that my granddaughter is involved in any discussions around my support.”
• “Getting outside is really important to me. When I’m having a difficult day, getting outside helps me to find space to think more clearly.”

Listening is also important

Listen with an open mind. In doing this, try to see from the other person’s point of view to understand what is important to them. Remember that listening involves more than your ears. Signals such as making eye contact, nodding, and leaning in can also demonstrate that you are paying attention.

After you ask, “What matters to you?” give the other person time to talk without interrupting. Try silently counting to ten after they finish speaking before saying something, as they might just be pausing between thoughts.

You can find more tips on the What Matters to You? website.

Don’t forget to share your story

We want to hear about your experience on “What Matters to You?” Day. Write about your experience in the comments section of this article, and it may be featured in a future VCH News article!

On June 6, ask what matters, listen to what matters, and do what matters.