Shared decision-making (SDM) can be improved by focusing on building trust, empowering patients, and enhancing the process itself. This involves actively engaging patients in their care, providing them with clear and understandable information, and fostering a collaborative environment.
Strategies to Enhance Shared Decision Making:
1. Building Trust and Rapport:
- Open communication: Encourage open dialogue and active listening between patients and healthcare providers.
- Transparency: Clearly explain the purpose and benefits of SDM, addressing any patient concerns or anxieties.
- Respectful communication: Use patient-centered language and avoid medical jargon.
2. Empowering Patients:
- Information accessibility: Provide patients with clear, concise, and understandable information about their condition, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits.
- Decision aids: Utilize decision aids, such as pamphlets, videos, or interactive tools, to help patients understand their choices.
- Shared goal setting: Work collaboratively with patients to set realistic and achievable treatment goals.
3. Enhancing the Process:
- Structured approach: Implement a structured SDM process that includes steps for information sharing, discussion, and decision-making.
- Time allocation: Allocate sufficient time for SDM consultations, allowing for adequate discussion and patient understanding.
- Regular feedback: Seek regular feedback from patients and healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement in the SDM process.
4. Utilizing Technology:
- Online resources: Provide patients with access to reliable online resources, such as patient portals or medical websites.
- Telehealth platforms: Utilize telehealth platforms to facilitate remote consultations and information sharing.
- Decision support tools: Integrate decision support tools into electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline the SDM process.
Conclusion
Improving shared decision making requires a multifaceted approach that focuses on building trust, empowering patients, and enhancing the process. By implementing strategies that promote open communication, patient engagement, and a structured approach, healthcare providers can foster a more collaborative and patient-centered model of care.
Resources
- National Decision Support Coalition: https://www.decisionsupport.org/
