Tips For How to Invite Your Patients Into a Shared Decision Making Conversation

Inviting Your Patient Into the Decision-Making Process

Many people may not realize that when it comes to medical decisions, there may be more than one choice. Providers should inform patients that they have a choice, and they can share the things that are most important to them. It is essential for them to know that being a part of the decision-making process can be a more beneficial experience that has been proven to lead to better health outcomes.

Patient Benefits of Shared Decision Making:

Potential Ways to Empower Your Patients and Start a Shared Decision Making Conversation:

Engaging patients in decision making can begin with a simple invitation, welcoming them into the process. Without an invitation, patients may remain uninvolved. They may not realize that there is a decision to be made, that they can take an active role, or they may be worried or intimidated about speaking up.

In other words, it may be up to you to initiate this conversation and invite the patient to participate.

Conversation Starters:

“We have a decision to make about your care, and I’d like to make it with you. Knowing what’s important to you will help us make a better decision together.”

OR

“Sometimes things in medicine aren’t as black and white as some people think. Let’s work together so we can come up with a decision that’s right for you.”

OR

“We need to make a decision about your treatment (or testing). I’m going to go over your options with you, including the risks and benefits of each one, and then we can figure out which option we both think is the right one for you, okay?"