What must patients provide to make informed health care decisions?

Patients must provide a complete understanding of their diagnosis and treatment options to make informed health care decisions because informed consent is a cornerstone of patient autonomy and rights. This understanding allows patients to evaluate the risks and benefits of their treatment options and to align their health care choices with their values, preferences, and goals.

When patients understand their diagnosis, they can ask relevant questions and engage in discussions regarding their treatment, which is critical for an effective shared decision-making process between the patient and the healthcare provider. This ensures that patients are fully aware of their situation and can participate actively in their care, ultimately leading to more personalized and satisfactory health outcomes.

In contrast, minimal interaction with health care providers, vague statements about health, or only basic medical history do not equip patients with the necessary information or context to make knowledgeable decisions about their treatment, putting them at a disadvantage in managing their own health care.