Shared Decision-Making
Taking care of a child with extra health care needs is a big job. For many patients and family members, it can feel new and overwhelming. You may feel very alone.
It doesn’t have to be that way. Research has shown that the best health care outcomes happen when patients, their family members, and their providers work together. This works best when the providers consider the patient’s needs, understand the family’s situation, and make decisions together about treatment plans. This is called shared decision-making.
Some benefits of shared decision-making for patients and families are:
- They learn more about their child’s health condition.
- They recognize the need to make a decision
- They are informed about what options exist
- They understand the pros and cons of different options
- They are prepared to ask questions of their child’s health care provider
- They are able to make a decision that is right for their family
- They are more likely to follow through with the treatment chosen.
In many health care situations, there is no single “right” health care choice. This is because most choices about treatment, medical care, and health conditions come with pros and cons. Shared decision-making is important in these situations because there may be more than one reasonable option. Having information is important because each patient is an individual, and what works well for one, may not work well for another. Usually, the best decision is made when you consider both the provider’s knowledge and experience along with the family’s values and preferences.
Parent Tips for Shared Decision Making
The following tips can help you let your child’s health care providers know you want to participate in shared decision-making.
- Tell the doctor know you want to be involved in decision making. Share with them what is important to you and your family. This can include information about your families values, traditions, available resources, and quality of life.
- Ask what treatment options are available and the benefits and risks of each option. Let the provider know if you prefer to receive information in written form.
- Ask questions about each option presented. Be sure to voice any concerns.
- Clarify how soon a decision must be made. Some decisions are more urgent, while others are not. Ask when a decision needs to be made. For non-urgent situations, it is okay to ask for additional time to consider your decision.
- Let the provider know which option seems best for your child and family. Explain why this is your choice and confirm that you understand next steps.
- Ask for detailed instructions for next steps. Discuss any possible challenges you may encounter with your decision.
- Share feedback and progress over time. You may find that things aren’t going as you had planned, or your situation may change. It is okay to ask to revisit your decision and let the provider know if an option isn’t working out.
Remember, the goal of shared decision-making is to improve communication with health care providers and make decisions that are best for you and your family. With shared decision-making, you can build a longer lasting and trusting relationship with your child’s health care providers.
