Shared Decision-Making:
Research & Solutions
The doctor-patient relationship is changing. Patients can no longer afford to play a passive role in care, safety and “bending the cost curve.” Active, informed patients are central to new models of care like:
- - Patient-Centered Care
- - The Medical Home
- - Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs)
What is Shared Decision-Making?
Shared decision-making is a model of care that enables patients to be informed, active participants in their care. Through education and engagement, it systematically empowers patients to make informed evidence-based decisions about their treatment options.
From the American Medical Association:
Formal shared decision-making processes are generally facilitated through the use of electronic or paper-based patient decision support aids, which are often developed by third parties and licensed for use by health plans, hospitals or physicians. Through tools such as booklets, videos, interactive computer programs, and structured personal coaching, patients receive evidence-based information about treatment options and outcomes that is specifically designed to help them evaluate tradeoffs in the context of their own feelings and preferences.
Decision support aids supplement direct communication between the physician and patient by offering patients an opportunity to process complex – and possibly frightening – information at their own pace, using information that addresses the emotional as well as the clinical aspects of medical care.
The Council believes it is important to emphasize that shared decision-making protocols and patient decision support aids are to be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, physician consultation. Physician guidance regarding the appropriate use of decision support aids, and communication between patient and physician about the patient’s values (as clarified through decision aids), are critical components of a comprehensive and effective shared decision-making process.
Tools to Engage Patients in Shared Decision-Making 
Interactive Emmi® programs engage patients to take more active roles in their care. Healthcare organizations use our products to empower patients to make informed health decisions. Our library includes programs such as:
- Treatment Options for Acute Low Back Pain
- Treatment Options for Chronic Low Back Pain
- Treatment Options for BPH
- Treatment Options for Hip Osteoarthritis
- Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis
- Treatment Options for Bariatric Surgery
- Treatment Options for Breast Reconstruction
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emmi programs
