#17 The Waiting Room Revolution with Dr. Hsien Seow and Dr. Samantha Winemaker

In this episode it is my pleasure to talk with Dr. Hsien Seow and Dr. Samantha Winemaker, co-creators of the Waiting Room Revolution. I learn how the Waiting Room Revolution began and we discuss the skills they have identified to be hopeful and prepared when facing a serious illness. 

Key messages from guests

• To improve the end we have to start at the beginning.

• Why it is so important to share messages with patients and families helping them to be in the know rather than in the dark about health care experiences. 

• Skills to be hopeful and prepared for serious illness can be learned and shared with everyone. 

• Why zooming out matters so much, to have an opportunity to review illness as part of a complete picture. 

• The natural history of any illness is probably the best roadmap that anyone could have when they are diagnosed with a progressive life limiting illness with beginning. 

• Walking two roads meaning hoping for the best and planning for the rest.

• Worry, uncertainty and anxiety can exacerbate symptoms; planning ahead can help alleviate uncertainty. 

• In reality it can be the health care. 

• The phrases can be used to help get the information you need.
  

Resource

• Find out more about the 7 keys to a better illness experience in Waiting Room Revolution

Dr. Hsien Seow, PhD. He is an Associate Professor in the Department of Oncology, McMaster University and the Canada Research Chair in Palliative Care and Health System Innovation. He publishes health care research focused on improving palliative care for patients with serious illness.

Dr. Samantha Winemaker, MD, CCFP(PC), FCFP. She is an Associate Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, in the Division of Palliative Care at McMaster University. She is a palliative care consultant in the greater Hamilton community. She has won numerous awards for her leadership in palliative care and education. They are co-hosts of the podcast, The Waiting Room Revolution.

Find out more about my Bespoke Consultancy

• Service analysis for teams seeking to improve EoLC or prepare for CQC

• End of Life Care Education

• Lasting Power of Attorney Consultancy

• Talks and presentations

If you’d like to find out more about my work contact me.

What one thing will you do?

It would be great to share what resonated with you from this episode, what is the one thing you will do differently? Head to Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn to continue these important conversations.

Thanks to all my guests for working with me to share their knowledge, experience and stories about Advance Care Planning. I hope you enjoyed listening and have insights to take away; I love hearing your reflections on the series and look forward to reviews on Spotify where you can also subscribe to the series.

Clare

Important Conversations about Important Conversations.

Podcast edited by Martin Whiskin.