Shared decision making

Shared decision making (SDM) is a process in which clinicians and patients work together to make decisions and select tests, treatments and care plans based on clinical evidence that balances risks and expected outcomes with patient preferences and values. Clinical evidence is the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid when applied to medical practice.

Definition

Shared decision making is an approach where clinicians and patients share the best available evidence when faced with the task of making decisions, and where patients are supported to consider options, to achieve informed preferences.

History

The concept of shared decision making was developed in response to an ethical imperative that has emerged in health care over the past 50 years. The traditional model of the doctor-patient relationship, where the doctor decides what is best for the patient, has gradually been replaced by a model of patient autonomy.

Process

The process of shared decision making involves several steps:

1. The clinician provides the patient with information about their health condition, including the benefits and risks of different treatment options.
2. The patient shares their values and preferences with the clinician.
3. The clinician and patient discuss the options and the patient's preferences.
4. The clinician and patient make a decision together about the next steps in treatment.

Benefits

Shared decision making has several benefits. It respects patient autonomy, improves patient knowledge, reduces decisional conflict, and may lead to improved health outcomes.

Challenges

Despite its benefits, shared decision making is not always easy to implement. Challenges include time constraints, lack of training and support for clinicians, and difficulties in measuring the quality of shared decision making.

See also

• Patient participation
• Informed consent
• Healthcare quality

External links

• Shared Decision Making National Resource Center

Shared decision making Resources
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