What does the VA's "Shared Decision-Making" model focus on?

The VA's "Shared Decision-Making" model emphasizes the importance of involving veterans actively in their health care choices. This approach prioritizes collaboration between the veteran and their healthcare providers, fostering an environment where information is exchanged openly. Through shared discussions, veterans are not only informed about their treatment options but also equipped to express their preferences and values.

This model supports the principle that health care is most effective when veterans understand the implications of their choices and can weigh the benefits and risks of different treatments. By engaging veterans in this manner, the VA aims to enhance patient satisfaction, improve health outcomes, and ensure that care aligns with the individual needs of each veteran. This holistic approach recognizes that veterans are experts in their own experiences and should have a say in decisions affecting their health.