The expert patient: towards a novel definition

Experience of illness and knowledge of disease make the expert patient an empowered partner for health professionals http://ow.ly/x8vbj Chronic diseases have become a major burden in many developed countries. Physicians and policy makers manage patients and set clinical as well as research goals. In recent years, however, it has become progressively apparent that, as the patients are the ones living with the disease, their views and wishes should be considered, and healthcare should be more patient-centred. Many guidelines stress the importance of patient education, especially now that patients have easy access to information through the internet, mass media, educational activities in hospitals, communities and patient groups. Those living with common conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, and even rare pulmonary disorders, progressively acquire both experience and knowledge of their condition. The importance of patient involvement not only in their own management but also in health policy planning and decision-making is now being emphasised in Europe. Task forces are beginning to include patients in their expert panels when setting guidelines.