Shared Decision Making

Shared decision-making occurs when a healthcare provider and a patient work together to make a healthcare decision that is best for the patient.  You and your doctor can work together to decide on the next steps moving forward.

Steps of Shared Decision Making

• Identify there is a decision to be made
• Patient shares their values, preferences, and concerns
• Doctor shares their information and recommendation
• Discussion
• Mutual or agreed-upon decision

What You Should Know about Shared Decision Making

• You can ask about the pros and cons of each option or why your doctor might recommend one option over the other.
• Your choice may not be the same one that your doctor would make
• You don’t have to make an immediate decision
• It can be helpful to discuss your options with your family and friends

Is Your Doctor Practicing Shared Decision Making?

To ensure shared decision-making is happening, you can check if your doctor follows the SHARE Approach by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). This approach involves five steps to discuss what matters most to you when considering treatment options, including exploring benefits, harms, and risks.

How You Can Participate in Shared Decision Making

• Prepare for appointments with written questions
• Ask for clarification or written materials to help with decisions
• Share your personal preferences and values
• Request information about the pros and cons of each option, including how much the therapy will cost with the insurance you have (your doctor’s office might be able to help provide you with this information, or you can your insurance company after your appointment)
• Ask for time if you’re not ready to decide

You get to decide!

Additional Resources:

• APFED Webinar: Shared Decision Making in Healthcare

Shared Decision Making in Healthcare | APFED Eos Support Webinar Series