Georgia Christian University Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Discussion

In this module we discussed the difference between problem-solving and decision-making options and identified several facets that distinguish these two options especially in the patient engagement process.

In a cancer treatment center patients are receiving different types of treatments such as surgery and radiotherapy. Radiotherapy is used as a treatment that focuses on varied doses of radiation to kill cancerous cells or minimize the size of the tumor. On the other hand surgery is used to remove a part of the tumor with minimal damage to the body or the organ that is impacted by the disease.

Discuss the encounter between the physician and their patient in the treatment center in the context of the two options: decision-making and problem-solving. Does the encounter in this scenario require a problem-solving approach or a decision-making approach? How is the element of patient engagement discussed in the module material relevant in this encounter and improving outcomes?