Understanding prevention is one thing, but communicating it effectively is another. The following exercises will help you apply what you have learned to make prevention feel both valuable and essential to your patients.

The FALLS principle helps you clarify which patients you most want to reach and connect with. Even if you offer care to a wide range of patients, identifying a preferred patient type can make your prevention communication more effective. Use the prompts below to describe your preferred patient.

Family:

    • Do they have children?
    • Are they married?
    • Are they likely to make decisions for others in the household?

Age:

    • What age group are they in?
    • What stage of life are they in (e.g. young professionals, retirees)?
    • Do they have special needs because of this?

Lifestyle:

    • What do they prioritise? 
    • Where do they spend their money?
    • Do they have any special needs?

Location:

    • Do they live locally? 
    • What is the demographic or cultural makeup of your area?

Sex:

    • What is their gender identity?

Exercise: Making prevention feel essential to your preferred patient