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?

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
Talk
Section Two
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