scholarly journals Medical Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Shared Decision Making: Results From a Multinational, Cross-Sectional Survey

2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
pp. 238146831988587
Author(s):  
Renata W. Yen ◽  
Paul J. Barr ◽  
Nan Cochran ◽  
Johanna W. Aarts ◽  
France Légaré ◽  
...  

Introduction. We aimed to conduct a multinational cross-sectional online survey of medical students’ attitudes toward, knowledge of, and experience with shared decision making (SDM). Methods. We conducted the survey from September 2016 until May 2017 using the following: 1) a convenience sample of students from four medical schools each in Canada, the United States, and the Netherlands ( n = 12), and 2) all medical schools in the United Kingdom through the British Medical School Council ( n = 32). We also distributed the survey through social media. Results. A total of 765 students read the information sheet and 619 completed the survey. Average age was 24, 69% were female. Mean SDM knowledge score was 83.6% (range = 18.8% to 100%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 82.8% to 84.5%). US students had the highest knowledge scores (86.2%, 95% CI = 84.8% to 87.6%). The mean risk communication score was 57.4% (range = 0% to 100%; 95% CI = 57.4% to 60.1%). Knowledge did not vary with age, race, gender, school, or school year. Attitudes were positive, except 46% believed SDM could only be done with higher educated patients, and 80.9% disagreed that physician payment should be linked to SDM performance (increased with years in training, P < 0.05). Attitudes did not vary due to any tested variable. Students indicated they were more likely than experienced clinicians to practice SDM (72.1% v. 48.8%). A total of 74.7% reported prior SDM training and 82.8% were interested in learning more about SDM. Discussion. SDM knowledge is high among medical students in all four countries. Risk communication is less well understood. Attitudes indicate that further research is needed to understand how medical schools deliver and integrate SDM training into existing curricula.

2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (1) ◽  
pp. 51-59
Author(s):  
Gisèle Diendéré ◽  
Imen Farhat ◽  
Holly Witteman ◽  
Ruth Ndjaboue

Background Measuring shared decision making (SDM) in clinical practice is important to improve the quality of health care. Measurement can be done by trained observers and by people participating in the clinical encounter, namely, patients. This study aimed to describe the correlations between patients’ and observers’ ratings of SDM using 2 validated and 2 nonvalidated SDM measures in clinical consultations. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 238 complete dyads of health professionals and patients in 5 university-affiliated family medicine clinics in Canada. Participants completed self-administered questionnaires before and after audio-recorded medical consultations. Observers rated the occurrence of SDM during medical consultations using both the validated OPTION-5 (the 5-item “observing patient involvement” score) and binary questions on risk communication and values clarification (RCVC-observer). Patients rated SDM using both the 9-item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q9) and binary questions on risk communication and values clarification (RCVC-patient). Results Agreement was low between observers’ and patients’ ratings of SDM using validated OPTION-5 and SDM-Q9, respectively (ρ = 0.07; P = 0.38). Observers’ ratings using RCVC-observer were correlated to patients’ ratings using either SDM-Q9 ( rpb = −0.16; P = 0.01) or RCVC-patients ( rpb = 0.24; P = 0.03). Observers’ OPTION-5 scores and patients’ ratings using RCVC-questions were moderately correlated ( rφ = 0.33; P = 0.04). Conclusion There was moderate to no alignment between observers’ and patients’ ratings of SDM using both validated and nonvalidated measures. This lack of strong correlation emphasizes that observer and patient perspectives are not interchangeable. When assessing the presence, absence, or extent of SDM, it is important to clearly state whose perspectives are reflected.


RMD Open ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. e001121
Author(s):  
Elke G E Mathijssen ◽  
Bart J F van den Bemt ◽  
Sabien Wielsma ◽  
Frank H J van den Hoogen ◽  
Johanna E Vriezekolk

ObjectivesTo explore physicians’ and nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and experiences of shared decision making (SDM) in rheumatology, to identify barriers and facilitators to SDM, and to examine whether physicians’ and nurses’ perspectives of SDM differ.MethodsA cross-sectional, exploratory, online survey was used. Besides demographic characteristics, healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and experiences of SDM in rheumatology were assessed. Barriers and facilitators to SDM were identified from healthcare professionals’ answers. Descriptive statistics were computed and differences between physicians’ and nurses’ perspectives of SDM were examined with a t-test or Fisher’s exact test, as appropriate.ResultsBetween April and June 2019, 77 physicians and 70 nurses completed the survey. Although most healthcare professionals lacked a full conceptual understanding of SDM, almost all physicians (92%) and all nurses had a (very) positive attitude toward SDM, which was most frequently motivated by the belief that SDM improves patients’ treatment adherence. The majority (>50%) of healthcare professionals experienced problems with the application of SDM in clinical practice, mostly related to time constraints. Other important barriers were the incompatibility of SDM with clinical practice guidelines and beliefs that patients do not prefer to be involved in decision making or are not able to take an active role. Modest differences between physicians’ and nurses’ perspectives of SDM were found.ConclusionsThere is a clear need for education and training that equips and empowers healthcare professionals to apply SDM. Furthermore, the commitment of time, resources and financial support for national, regional and organisational initiatives is needed to make SDM in rheumatology a practical reality.


2021 ◽  
pp. 0272989X2110041
Author(s):  
Anja K. Köther ◽  
Katharina U. Siebenhaar ◽  
Georg W. Alpers

Objective The COVID-19 pandemic pushed some of the most well-developed health care systems to their limits. In many cases, this has challenged patient-centered care. We set out to examine individuals’ attitudes toward shared decision making (SDM) and to identify predictors of participation preference during the pandemic. Methods We conducted an online survey with a large convenience sample ( N = 1061). Our main measures of interest were participants’ generic and COVID-19–related participation preference as well as their acceptance and distress regarding a triage vignette. We also assessed anxiety, e-health literacy, and aspects of participants’ health. We conducted group comparisons and multiple linear regression analyses on participation preference as well as triage acceptance. Results In generic decision making, most participants expressed a strong need for information and a moderate participation preference. In the hypothetical case of COVID-19 infection, most preferred physician-led decisions. Generic participation preference was the strongest predictor of COVID-19–related participation preference, followed by age, education, and anxiety. Furthermore, both higher generic and COVID-19–related participation preferences predicted lower triage acceptance. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate potential health care recipients’ attitudes toward SDM during a severe health care crisis and emphasize that participation preference varies according to the context.


2020 ◽  
Vol 47 (4) ◽  
pp. 294-302
Author(s):  
Sophy K Barber ◽  
Fiona Ryan ◽  
Susan J Cunningham

Objective: To establish UK orthodontic treatment providers’ knowledge of, and attitudes to, shared decision-making (SDM). SDM involves patients as equal partners in decisions about treatment. Design: Cross-sectional survey. Setting: Online survey across the UK. Population: Dentists and orthodontists providing orthodontic treatment in the UK. Methods: Potential participants were contacted through the British Orthodontic Society mailing lists. An online survey was developed to examine knowledge of, and attitudes to, SDM using a combination of evidence-based statements and free text boxes. Questions regarding previous training in SDM and preferences for further training were also included. Results: The survey was completed by 210 respondents, yielding an approximate response rate of 15%. Respondents were mainly consultants (34%) and specialist orthodontists (42%). SDM was well described in terms of the people involved in this process, how it is approached, the components and topics of discussion, and the overall purpose of SDM. Generally, there was consistency in attitudinal responses, with the largest variance in responses to questions about the professional–patient partnership, the interface between SDM and clinical guidelines, and accepting a decision that is discordant with the professional’s opinion. Fifty-one respondents reported having some previous teaching/training in SDM, with the majority (87%) indicating that they would like more training. Conclusion: Clinicians providing orthodontic treatment in the UK have a good understanding of the meaning of shared decision-making. Concerns raised about using SDM and knowledge gaps suggest there is value in providing SDM training for the orthodontic team and that orthodontic providers would welcome it.


2010 ◽  
Vol 14 (5) ◽  
pp. 233-239 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jerry Tan ◽  
Dawn Stacey ◽  
Karen Fung ◽  
Benjamin Barankin ◽  
Robert Bissonnette ◽  
...  

Background: Informed shared decision making is a mutual process engaging both doctor and patient and informed by best medical evidence and patient values and preferences. Objective: Our aim was to identify the needs of psoriasis patients in decisions on selecting treatment. Methods: Psoriasis subjects participated in an online survey on decisional role, postdecisional conflict, and treatment awareness. Results: Of 2,622 people invited to participate, 248 completed surveys. Their most recent treatment decision was either made by subjects alone (42%) or physicians alone (28%) or was shared (29%). Subjects perceived that their doctors lacked time to stay abreast of treatments, to provide counseling, and to access appropriate treatments. Deficiencies most frequently identified were information on options, clarification of values, access to physicians, and decision-making skills. Those with a body surface area (BSA) ≥ 3% more frequently indicated that having the skill or ability to make treatment decisions was important. Limitations: The limitations of this study include sampling, recall, and reporting bias. Percent BSA was not verified. Conclusions: The multiple deficiencies in support of psoriasis patients in treatment decisions may preclude informed shared decision making.


2021 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
pp. 237437352110340
Author(s):  
Karen Homa ◽  
Gabrielle Stevens ◽  
Rachel Forcino ◽  
Peter Scalia ◽  
Pamela Mertz ◽  
...  

There are numerous opportunities for shared decision-making (SDM) in cystic fibrosis (CF) care, yet little is known about patients’ SDM experiences. This study evaluated SDM across 159 CF care programs (4024 participants) in the United States. Shared decision-making was assessed using the patient-reported collaboRATE measure, which was included in the CF Foundation’s Patient and Family Experience of Care Survey over 18 months. Overall, 69% of respondents reported experiencing SDM. Respondents at pediatric programs were more likely to experience SDM than those at adult programs (72% vs 67%, P < .001). Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed a relationship between SDM and patient age, whereby SDM was less likely to occur with patients aged 18 to 24 years, compared to some younger and older age groups ( P = .02-<.001). Shared decision-making was more likely to occur at pediatric programs when patients had better general health ( P = .02-<.01), and at pediatric and adult programs when patients had better mental health ( P = .02-<.001). Disparities in SDM experiences highlight a need to improve decision-making processes in CF care. Interventions tailored for improving SDM among specific patient populations may be particularly advantageous.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard Huan XU ◽  
Lingming ZHOU ◽  
Eliza Lai-Yi WONG ◽  
Dong WANG ◽  
Guo Chun XIANG ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The objective of this study was to ascertain the importance rankings of factors affecting the implementation of shared decision-making (SDM) in medical students in China and determine whether these factors were consistent across the respondents’ individual characteristics. Method Students studying clinical medicine were recruited from three medical universities in China. A cross-sectional online survey using best-worst object scaling with a balanced incomplete block design was adopted to investigate their preference towards implementing SDM in China. Count analysis, multinomial logit analysis and mixed logit analysis were used to estimate the preference heterogeneity of the SDM factors among respondents. Results A total of 574 medical students completed the online survey. The three most important factors for implementing SDM were trust and respect, (providing) high-quality medical information and multi-disciplinary collaboration. The mixed logit regression model identified significant heterogeneity in SDM preferences among respondents, and sub-group analysis showed that some heterogeneities varied in respondents by sex, study programs and their experience of visiting doctors. Conclusion The importance rankings provide rich information for implementing SDM and facilitate the reform of education in medical schools in China. However, the heterogeneities in SDM preference need further explorations.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martina Bientzle ◽  
Marie Eggeling ◽  
Simone Korger ◽  
Joachim Kimmerle

BACKGROUND: Successful shared decision making (SDM) in clinical practice requires that future clinicians learn to appreciate the value of patient participation as early as in their medical training. Narratives, such as patient testimonials, have been successfully used to support patients’ decision-making process. Previous research suggests that narratives may also be used for increasing clinicians’ empathy and responsiveness in medical consultations. However, so far, no studies have investigated the benefits of narratives for conveying the relevance of SDM to medical students.METHODS: In this randomized controlled experiment, N = 167 medical students were put into a scenario where they prepared for medical consultation with a patient having Parkinson disease. After receiving general information, participants read either a narrative patient testimonial or a fact-based information text. We measured their perceptions of SDM, their control preferences (i.e., their priorities as to who should make the decision), and the time they intended to spend for the consultation.RESULTS: Participants in the narrative patient testimonial condition referred more strongly to the patient as the one who should make decisions than participants who read the information text. Participants who read the patient narrative also considered SDM in situations with more than one treatment option to be more important than participants in the information text condition. There were no group differences regarding their control preferences. Participants who read the patient testimonial indicated that they would schedule more time for the consultation.CONCLUSIONS: These findings show that narratives can potentially be useful for imparting the relevance of SDM and patient-centered values to medical students. We discuss possible causes of this effect and implications for training and future research.


Author(s):  
Marta Maes-Carballo ◽  
Manuel Martín-Díaz ◽  
Luciano Mignini ◽  
Khalid Saeed Khan ◽  
Rubén Trigueros ◽  
...  

Objectives: To assess shared decision-making (SDM) knowledge, attitude and application among health professionals involved in breast cancer (BC) treatment. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study based on an online questionnaire, sent by several professional societies to health professionals involved in BC management. There were 26 questions which combined demographic and professional data with some items measured on a Likert-type scale. Results: The participation (459/541; 84.84%) and completion (443/459; 96.51%) rates were high. Participants strongly agreed or agreed in 69.57% (16/23) of their responses. The majority stated that they knew of SDM (mean 4.43 (4.36–4.55)) and were in favour of its implementation (mean 4.58 (4.51–4.64)). They highlighted that SDM practice was not adequate due to lack of resources (3.46 (3.37–3.55)) and agreed on policies that improved its implementation (3.96 (3.88–4.04)). The main advantage of SDM for participants was patient satisfaction (38%), and the main disadvantage was the patients’ paucity of knowledge to understand their disease (24%). The main obstacle indicated was the lack of time and resources (40%). Conclusions: New policies must be designed for adequate training of professionals in integrating SDM in clinical practice, preparing them to use SDM with adequate resources and time provided.


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