Does Health Coaching Work?

At the heart of health coaching is the notion that when patients are made to feel empowered and informed, that they become activated and can better self-manage their health. The formation of a trusted coaching partnership between patients and professionals, creates a space for informed decisions to be made. The authors of this review believe that coaching is a fundamental part of quality healthcare provision. It provides a safe space to improve the knowledge and skills of patients, enabling them to partner with professionals. At the same time coaching builds the confidence needed to take ownership and responsibility for one’s own wellbeing. The coaching process can therefore profoundly benefit the patient, professional and the cultural setting in which they exist.

Authors: Ethan Salathiel and Professor Jonathan Passmore