Biology and Biography: Shared Decision-Making in Your Healthcare

How do you make healthcare decisions that balance the biology of a diagnosis—the research-based facts and figures—with the biography of what matters to you and how you want to live your life? Today, I talk with Dr. Susannah Graham, a leading breast surgeon who champions patient-centred care. She shares her insights on empowering patients to communicate their wants and needs effectively, fostering a collaborative approach to healthcare that respects your autonomy, values, and life priorities. Join us as we unpack how shared decision-making improves patient satisfaction and well-being, empowering you to shape your healthcare—not just as a patient, but as a person. Together, we discuss:·      What shared decision-making is and why it matters, particularly for women.·      How to actively participate in healthcare decisions to feel more informed, confident, and in control.·      Your role as a patient and the role of the healthcare professional in shared decision-making.·      Strategies to communicate openly and feel confident in your choices, even when discussing complex topics.·      Real-life examples of shared decision-making in breast cancer care, including navigating reconstruction options after a mastectomy.·      Balancing medical recommendations with your personal values, lifestyle, and preferences. Self-health advocacy is about knowing what’s important to you and confidently communicating it with your healthcare team, so together, you can make an informed shared decision that honours your values, needs, and the life you want to live.Want to learn more about decision-making? Listen to Marilyn Barefoot's episode 'How Creative Thinking (and a Rubber Chicken) Can Help you Make Health Decisions'.For the resources mentioned in this show, visit the episode blog page. Connect with Luan:Follow Luan on InstagramGet Luan's free guide to Self-AdvocacySign up for Luan's NewsletterCheck out Luan's websiteDisclaimerCREDITS:Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health AdvocatePost-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.