How To Encourage Patient Follow-Through

by Susan Keane Baker

For patients who read, give instructions in writing.
For patients who don’t read, create an instant audiotape for them to listen to again later, perhaps with their family members.
Have others in your organization reinforce your message.
Let your patient know what to expect if he doesn’t follow the agreed-upon treatment plan.
Match your patient with another patient volunteer who has been successful.
Ask your patient, "If you were the only person in the world who could solve this problem, what would you do?"
Give your patient a log or ask him to keep a diary to record his progress.

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