Guiding patients through complexity: Motivational interviewing for patients with multimorbidity

Area of Science:

• General Practice
• Health Psychology
• Behavioral Medicine

Background:

• Multimorbidity presents a growing challenge in Australian general practice, requiring complex navigation of interventions.
• Current guidelines emphasize patient-centred care and lifestyle modifications for managing multiple chronic conditions.
• Motivational interviewing is a patient-centred technique effective for behavioral change across various lifestyle factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To offer a practical introduction to motivational interviewing skills for general practitioners (GPs).
• To equip GPs with techniques to assist patients with multimorbidity in navigating care recommendations.
• To highlight the utility of motivational interviewing in fostering patient motivation for change.

Main Methods:

• The article discusses key motivational interviewing skills relevant to multimorbidity management.
• Specific skills include agenda setting, providing advice, managing patient resistance, and eliciting intrinsic motivation.
• The focus is on practical application within a general practice setting.

Main Results:

• General practitioners are well-positioned to guide patients with multimorbidity through complex care recommendations.
• Motivational interviewing offers a framework beyond the traditional 'assess-and-advise' model.
• This approach empowers patients to actively participate in their health management.

Conclusions:

• Motivational interviewing is a valuable, readily applicable tool for GPs managing patients with multimorbidity.
• It supports a patient-centred approach, enhancing engagement and behavioral change.
• Empowering patients is crucial for effectively navigating the complexities of multimorbidity.