This article provides strategies and tips for addressing a slower rate of improvement than expected for symptom severity on measurement-informed care (MIC) surveys.
Strategies and tips for addressing a slower rate of improvement than expected
Slow progress can be a powerful learning opportunity. When symptom severity stagnates, we should pause our current approach and explore what's working and what might need adjustment. Remember, each patient is unique in their needs and responses to treatment. Our role is to collaboratively create a treatment plan and monitor for outcomes by regularly reviewing medication approaches. Stay curious and non-judgmental throughout the process.
Validate the patient experience. Acknowledge that it can feel really difficult when depression or anxiety symptoms are not “getting better.” Normalize these feelings and explain that treatment progress is not always linear. Consider a holistic approach to treatment, such as lab monitoring, and social support, along with medication adjustments or changes. Reassure them of your commitment to helping them achieve their treatment goals. Sometimes, your observed clinical progress as the provider might differ from their self-assessment. While validating their perspective, discuss the positive changes you observe and broaden the conversation on how we measure progress.
Adjust the plan like a GPS reroutes around obstacles. Let your patient know you are willing to shift course to better meet their needs. Together, you can explore new approaches, and interventions, or even update medication approaches, treatment goals, and objectives. Are they clear, achievable, and measurable? How will we track progress, and what will success look and feel like? This may also include referrals for a higher level of care to provide the best support.
Key Takeaway
Progress in treatment isn't always linear. Instead of seeing minimal score change on measures as a sign that treatment isn’t “working,” use it as an opportunity to explore new strategies and adjust the treatment plan to help the patient build stronger treatment momentum.
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