Consumers and carers

The Choosing Wisely Australia initiative is helping the healthcare community and consumers to start important conversations about unnecessary and sometimes harmful tests, treatments and procedures. We are here to support consumers to make informed decisions in partnership with their healthcare professionals in ways that suit their own preferences and personal circumstances. Choosing Wisely is challenging the notion that ‘more is always better’. The right choice should be based on the best available evidence and discussion between you and your healthcare team.

A personal journey from a carer to a Choosing Wisely advocate
17 Dec 2020 | Media centre

A personal journey from a carer to a Choosing Wisely advocate

Debra Letica never expected to become a carer during her lifetime, but it was the most natural thing to do. She now uses and promotes Choosing Wisely personally and as a consumer advocate in the health system.

Pandemic guidance for consumers
24 June 2020 | Media centre

Pandemic guidance for consumers

Choosing Wisely and asking questions about medical treatments and tests is still important during a pandemic. With the extra strain on public health resources, GPs and hospitals, health professionals have had to work together to plan for the worst outcomes as well as do their normal work. Multidisciplinary teams have adopted an evidence-based, patient-centred approach, and have adapted to new technologies in health. The health system has changed rapidly in response to the threat. We have developed specific pandemic guidance to help you find reliable information about the pandemic, while still seeking out necessary healthcare. This is based on current evidence and will be updated as the evidence changes.

Old v New (with captions)
17 Feb 2020 | Media centre

Old v New (with captions)

Without the ‘five questions’, it could have been a disaster
27 Feb 2020 | Media centre

Without the ‘five questions’, it could have been a disaster

Many Australians are taking more medications than they need - and putting themselves at unnecessary risk.

Choose Wisely Choose Co-Design
27 Feb 2020 | Media centre

Choose Wisely Choose Co-Design

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service (SCHHS) recognises that for many people hospital is just one part of their healthcare journey, so helping consumers ask questions about their care and promoting broader collaboration with consumers is vital.

Downloadable slide deck for Choosing Wisely Australia
29 June 2020 | Media centre

Downloadable slide deck for Choosing Wisely Australia

A slide deck for Choosing Wisely Australia advocates who are presenting on the initiative at meetings or events.

Consumer advocacy

5 questions to ask your doctor or other healthcare provider

5 questions to ask your doctor or other healthcare provider

More details

Choosing Wisely Australia translated resources

Explore the translated versions of the 5 questions you should consider asking your doctor or other healthcare provider.

Supported languages

Tips for communicating with healthcare providers

It's not always easy to communicate with health professionals, especially if you don't know them very well. Here are some tips for your next healthcare appointment.

Read our tips now