Washington, D.C.-based George Washington University School of Nursing researchers identified strategies top-performing physicians use to boost patient motivation about their health, according to American Academy of Family Physicians.
Annals of Family Medicine published the study.
Here are five strategies to motivate patients.
1. Encourage patients to own their health. Physicians should emphasize good health comes from a patient's actions, not from a physician.
2. Be on the same team. Work with patients to create goals and behavior change strategies.
3. Don't overwhelm patients. Encourage patients to accomplish small goals, instead of implementing a whole lifestyle change, at first.
4. Always follow-up with patients. Whether it's in-person or over email, don't leave patients hanging without any additional support.
5. Explain healthy behavior is for the patient, not you. Be candid when discussing why patients should change their behavior for health reasons.