 |
Emphasises two additional concepts choice and
accountability that reflect our consumer focus. By choice, we mean choice of
health plan, of provider, and of carers a right of autonomy and self
determination. For healthcare decisions to be effective, they must be personal
decisions that reflect personal values as well as medical knowledge.
Accountability for the consequences of healthcare decisions is a cornerstone
principle. It includes responsibilities of consumers as well as of payers and
providers. Taking personal responsibility for our own health, as consumers,
means paying according to our means; prudently and appropriately using
limited healthcare resources; adopting health promoting behaviours; continually
learning about important health issues; and actively participating in decision
making about our own health as well as that of the community. This draws
consumers into the healthcare system as partners, not just as payers or
subjects of care. |
