Effective Decision-making

This article examines the critical role of communication and interpersonal negotiation in provider/consumer relations. Only through the use of strategic and competent communication can providers and consumers work cooperatively to make effective health-care decisions. A conflict resolution/shared negotiation model is presented to illustrate how communication can facilitate cooperative decision- making in health care. The model emphasizes cooperation, trust and mutual adaptation between providers and consumers. A case study is then presented to illustrate further the model and cooperative health-care decision-making processes.