Education is the Key
As I reflect on all the healthcare experiences I have been a part of, both as a patient and as a doctor, the ones that stand out in my mind the most are the experiences where I learned something, either about a specific complaint or about my health in general. As a patient, I always trust that the practitioner is performing the necessary steps to treat me, however understanding why brings about a whole new level of confidence. Any fear, apprehension or concern seems to diminish once I learn and become involved. A famous Chinese proverb says “tell me and I’ll forget, show me and I may remember, involve me and I will understand”. This classic quote speaks to our thoughts on healthcare, and how we approach each and every patient.
To achieve true success in maintaining a level of wellness and prevention the patient must become an active participant in their own health. No matter how effective the treatment is, ultimately the patient is in control of their own destiny. Patients choose whether or not to follow their treatments plans, do their exercises, or follow the advice of their doctor. In my mind, it is the job of the practitioner to not only administer an effective treatment, but to educate patients so they can become involved in their own care.
At Village Wellness education is the cornerstone of our practice. We strive to educate patients in aspects of muscle, bone, joint and nerve conditions, as well as general health concepts and principles, so they can feel a sense of empowerment over their own health. That sense of control and involvement in your own care translates into real action, and in most cases results in the goals of the treatment being met. At our clinic we use a variety of educational methods, one of which is 3D-Rx, a comprehensive patient education software program. Village Wellness is the first clinic in Atlantic Canada to utilize this interactive program, featuring over 140 anatomically correct animations and customized drawing capability, which allows our practitioners to educate patients based on their individual needs. This software is just one of many forms of education used in the office, designed with patient understanding in mind.
Education is the key to understanding, and the first step to taking control over your own health. Make the choice to become empowered, and you will begin to see the power of knowledge.
Dr. Chad Mykietiuk, DC