Harding et al (2014) add that “family or friend feedback” rather than clinical information drives patient decisions. Whilst Miller and May (2006) agree that friends and family recommendation along with cleanliness and food are a factor; it is the quality and reputation of the consultant that drives patient choice. Conversely, Daggett (2006) challenges that media influences patient choice because by reporting on negative aspects of care the patient is more likely to choose somewhere else. Varkevisser, Van der Geest and Schut (2012) also identify that quality has an impact as patients choose hospitals with good reputations and quality …show more content…
Fotaki (2014) and Miller and May (2006) suggest patients want to be involved in decision making more than having a choice. Calne, Calne and Calne (2009) argue that rather than the patient choice model, shared decision making should be advocated instead so that it is both the doctor and patient that make the decision. Patients (especially older adults) need or prefer the doctors’ expertise working in partnership to make a choice (Harding, et al, 2014). Conversely, for shared decision making to work effectively, patients have to have trust in doctors who in turn need to be good communicators with enough experience to be able to advise and there needs to be sufficient time (Calne, Calne and Calne, 2009). Doctors have an obligation to treat when they take on care which then gives the patient rights this fits with liberal individualism (rights based theory) (Beauchamp and Childress, 2001, p.359). It is the doctors’ role to have “responsibility” for assisting patients with decision making, especially if it means relatives are relieved of the potential guilt caused by making life or death decisions (Calne, Calne and Calne, 2009). Patients should be “encouraged, empowered” and supported in making decisions (Nursing and Midwifery Council, 2015). Excluding