USE THE “SHARE” APPROACH TO INVOLVE PATIENTS IN DECISION MAKING

Physicians and patients sharing in health care decisions is an integral part of primary care, but doing so in a comprehensive, repeatable way can be difficult. Every decision is different, every patient has different values and preferences, and it's not always easy to determine if a patient clearly grasps the risks and benefits of a given decision.

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has developed a five-step process, the SHARE approach, for facilitating shared decision making between clinicians and patients. The steps are as follows:

• Seek your patient's participation: “Now that we have identified the problem, it's time for us to think about what to do next. I would like your input.”

• Help your patient explore and compare treatment options: “Here are some choices we can consider. Let me tell you what the research says about the benefits and risks.”

• Assess your patient's values and preferences: “As you think about your options, what's important to you? What risks worry you most?”

• Reach a decision with your patient: “Would you like some more time to think about the treatment choices, or are you ready to decide?”

• Evaluate your patient's decision: “If you don't feel things are improving, please schedule a follow-up visit so we can plan a different approach.”