Elements of Healthy CHAT: Summary

Healthy CHAT / Section Two: Summary

The following video reiterates the four elements of a Healthy CHAT

Interactive

Quiz
Quiz5
Question #5: How did the healthcare worker start the conversation with Norman about whether or not he is currently smoking?
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Tips for having an effective opportunistic Healthy CHAT

When giving opportunistic advice on unhealthy risk behaviours in healthcare, you will need to think about:

Asking the right questions

  • Use exploring questions
  • Try to avoid closed-ended (yes/no) questions
  • Keep it simple
  • Make it relevant

Building
rapport

  • Use the right tone
  • Be respectful
  • Be encouraging
  • Listen attentively

Being
motivational

  • Work with the person to find the right solutions for them
  • Focus on what would work and when
  • Use a health coaching approach
  • Be person-centred
  • Incorporate the person’s point of view
  • Be strengths-based

Cultural
aspects

  • Aboriginal people may prefer to avoid direct eye contact
  • Sit at the same height
  • Some people may prefer certain things to be discussed with a healthcare worker of the same gender
  • Ask if the person would prefer an Aboriginal Health Service
  • Use interpreters if necessary

This video includes these elements in practice.

Things to avoid:

  • Using language that appears to blame the individual
  • Giving out too much information in one go
  • Telling the person what to do
  • Using medical jargon or acronyms
Before starting out it can be a good idea to practice having Healthy CHATs with colleagues or family members. This will help build your confidence. If you are working with Aboriginal people, this is a good opportunity to have a conversation with an Aboriginal Health Worker so you can be more culturally prepared for using Healthy CHAT.
Section Two
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Section Two
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Section Two
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Section Two
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