Informed Decision-Making: What It Is and How to Get Better at It—Fast
Informed decision-making refers to when a patient makes more advanced decisions based on a full understanding of their options and risks. While this may sound straightforward, the reality is that many people struggle to make confident, informed decisions—not because they’re incapable, but because they haven’t been taught how. And that’s where health literacy comes in.
Tools That Bridging the Gap: How Providers Use Tools That Turn Information Into Informed Decisions
Healthcare providers often rely on decision aids in the treatment room to help them deliver care more effectively. These tools give physicians a way to explain complex medical information clearly and consistently, ensuring patients have what they need to make better treatment choices about their care.
Some of the most common decision aids include:
- Educational booklets and brochures
- Visual charts and diagrams
- Interactive DVDs or digital videos
- Online decision-making platforms and apps
- Risk calculators and comparison charts
- Question prompt lists to encourage dialogue
These tools build on patient education by making medical concepts easier to understand and decisions easier to weigh. They support informed decision-making by giving patients the confidence to ask better questions and consider how options fit with their values and goals. And when used as part of shared decision-making, they help level the playing field—shifting patients from passive recipients of care to informed participants actively engaged in their health journey.
Why Health Literacy Matters in Informed Decision-Making
Health literacy is your ability to find, understand, and use information to make healthcare decisions. It’s more than just being able to read a pamphlet or fill out a form. It’s knowing what questions to ask, understanding what the answers mean, and feeling confident enough to take action.
If you’ve ever walked out of a doctor’s appointment feeling more confused than when you went in, or if you’ve delayed care because you didn’t understand your next steps, you’ve experienced a gap in health literacy. And when your health literacy is low, your ability to make informed decisions is compromised.
The Hidden Problem: Most Health Literacy Scores Only Measure You—They Don’t Teach You
There are many tools out there that measure your health literacy level. But here’s the catch: measurement alone doesn’t move the needle. Knowing you scored low on an assessment doesn’t help you communicate better with your doctor or sort through treatment options when time is of the essence.
What you really need is a way to learn how to become health-literate—not just be labeled by a number.
Real-Life Example: Two Patients, Two Different Outcomes
Let’s say two patients are diagnosed with the same chronic condition.
Patient A receives a pamphlet, Googles their symptoms, and nods along during their appointment, too afraid and passive to speak up. They don’t really understand their treatment plan but follow it half-heartedly from what they can remember. Weeks later, complications arise.
Patient B has gone through a health navigation course. They come prepared with a list of questions, review the risks and benefits of treatment options, and even bring a notebook to track symptoms. They choose a care plan that fits their lifestyle and values—and they feel confident about it.
Same diagnosis. Very different results. Why? Because Patient B has the skills to make informed decisions—quickly and clearly.
What You Should Know to Strengthen Your Decision-Making Skills
To make informed decisions, especially when you’re under pressure, you need a foundation built on five key abilities:
- Understand your diagnosis – Know what it means and how it affects your life.
- Ask meaningful questions – Such as “What are my options?” and “What happens if I do nothing?”
- Know how to weigh benefits and risks – Don’t just rely on Google; ask your provider to break it down.
- Navigate your records and care team – Understanding your medical records can help you advocate for what you need.
- Communicate clearly – Be comfortable saying “I don’t understand” or “Can you repeat that in plain language?”
These aren’t skills you’re born with. They’re learned—and anyone can learn them.
The Solution: Don’t Just Hope You’re Informed—Train for It
That’s where Patient Better’s Healthcare Proficiency Challenge comes in. It’s not just a quiz. It’s the first step in a complete program that teaches you how to:
- Improve your health literacy
- Prepare for appointments
- Communicate with confidence
- Make quick, informed decisions when it counts
By going through this training, you don’t just improve your knowledge—you develop a system for how to approach your care.
Questions to Help You Become a More Informed Decision-Maker
One of the fastest ways to strengthen your decision-making skills is by asking the right questions at the right time and understanding your rights. These questions keep you from feeling rushed, help you get the full picture, and ensure your choices align with your goals and values.
Here are a few examples you can bring into your next appointment:
- What are all of my treatment options—and what happens if I do nothing?
- What are the risks and benefits of each option?
- How will this treatment affect my daily life or long-term health?
- Are there lower-cost or less invasive alternatives I should consider?
- What resources or next steps should I follow after today’s visit?
By building the habit of asking questions like these, patients and caregivers shift from being passive recipients of care to active participants. This doesn’t just lead to better understanding—it leads to more confidence, stronger communication with providers, and ultimately, better health outcomes.
Final Thought: You Deserve to Feel Confident in Your Care
Making informed decisions about your health isn’t just a privilege—it’s your right. But in today’s complicated medical system, that right comes with responsibility: you have to learn how to advocate for yourself.
Fortunately, help is here. Take the first step. Learn what it means to navigate your healthcare confidently, clearly, and correctly—starting now.
Do you have any questions about your results or how to improve your healthcare proficiency?
Disclaimer: This education was brought to you today by The Patient Better Project Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to reshaping the way patients and caregivers navigate care. We are committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to take control of their health journeys, ensuring that everyone can access the care they need with confidence and clarity.
The information provided here is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.