Deploy motivational interviewing to engage patients in their care

Motivational interviewing is a patient-centered, collaborative communication style that can strengthen a patient’s own motivation and commitment to change. This interviewing style helps clinicians engage patients by asking questions in a way that puts patients at ease and responding in a way that makes patients feel accepted, not judged. By using motivational interviewing techniques, clinicians can develop a stronger rapport with the patient and address barriers to patient engagement.

Leaders at Carolinas HealthCare System require all caregivers who work directly with high-risk patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings to complete motivational interviewing training. Other care caregivers are encouraged to attend the training sessions—but it is optional.

This two-day, in-person training uses evidence-based interviewing techniques. The goal is to equip clinicians with the skills to ask questions that encourage truthful responses and sharing from patients. The cost of a locally-offered twoday training session is $100 per staff member, which is generally reimbursed by the department.

Once they complete the training, clinicians are expected to incorporate motivational interviewing techniques into all interactions with patients.

To help staff improve their skills over time and to keep motivational interviewing top of mind after the training, Carolinas HealthCare put a number of supplemental resources in place. Staff can use these resources to share experiences, learn about upcoming trainings, and receive feedback from experienced peers.