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Dr. Marina Abdel Malak

is a Family Medicine Resident at the University of Toronto. She graduated and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and went on to study Medicine. She has a passion for medical education, patient empowerment, and increasing awareness about the relationship between mental, emotional, and physical health.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract:Empowering patients to set health-directed goals can be a challenging process. The skilled clinician successfully supports patients in setting goals that are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic/relevant, and time-related). When goals are made in collaboration with patients, they are more likely to be long-lasting and impactful. This article will focus on how physicians can work with patients to identify, create, and work towards meaningful interventions that optimize health.
Key Words: motivation, behaviour changes, counselling, goals, treatment.

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www.cfpc.ca/Mainpro_M2

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Pre-test CME Quiz Post-test CME Quiz
Goal-setting should be a partnership between physicians and patients
Asking patients what THEY want—and can—change in their lives/health is the first step to eliciting what behaviours can be targeted
After goals are set, it is important for physicians to reassess patients' progress by asking them if goals were met, and why or why not. When success occurs, patients should be congratulated on their achievements. If the goals were not met, physicians should seek to understand why this occurred, and work with patients to create new goals that are more realistic or achievable
Physicians should motivate patients to set goals that are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic/relevant, and time-related)
Patients are more likely to adhere to behaviours, habits, or interventions if they feel understood, supported, and empowered
Supporting patients in achieving goals that optimize health can have significant impacts on patient wellness, self-esteem, functioning; and strengthens the physician-patient relationship
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Related Terms: Caregiving, motivation, behaviour change, counselling, treatment
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