How can a Medical Assistant support patient autonomy?

Supporting patient autonomy as a Medical Assistant involves empowering patients to make informed choices about their own healthcare. This is achieved by providing them with accurate, comprehensive information about their medical conditions, treatment options, and potential outcomes, allowing them to understand the implications of their choices. Respecting patients' decisions reinforces their right to direct their care and endorses the ethical principle of autonomy, which is fundamental in healthcare.

Enabling patients to ask questions and express their preferences further enhances their involvement in the decision-making process, fostering a collaborative healthcare environment. By doing so, Medical Assistants not only support patients in making choices that align with their values and beliefs but also contribute to improved patient satisfaction and health outcomes.