What is Shared Decision Making When It Comes to Your Health?
How doctors and patients work together for healthier decisions
How doctors and patients work together for healthier decisions
We’ve come a long way from “Take two and call me in the morning.” Doctor-patient relationships have evolved into partnerships, where doctors bring medical expertise, and patients provide insight into their own experiences, preferences and treatment goals.
The approach is called “shared decision-making,” and, when done right, it leads to better-informed patients and personalized treatment that balances evidence-based care with a patient’s goals.
“Shared decision-making involves an open discussion regarding all aspects of any medical issue from a physician’s perspective, while also understanding a patient’s values, interest and long-term needs,” says Siu Ming Geary, MD, vice president of primary care, Scripps Clinic.
“Essentially, it refers to the process of making informed health care decisions — whether about a specific treatment, medication or test — by providing all necessary information, answering the patient’s questions and considering risks, benefits and alternatives,” she continues. “We aim to support choices that align with the patient’s values, so they can receive care without fear or uncertainty.”
Balancing expertise with patient values
Shared decision-making fosters trust between doctor and patient, and encourages doctors to take into account a patient’s life outside the clinical setting. This more holistic approach leads to treatment options that better align with a patient’s goals and priorities.
“In shared decision-making, you’re allowing the patient to be part of the discussion. They should feel that it’s a team effort, that their physician has their best interests in mind and took the time to understand their situation and not jump to a conclusion,” says Anthony Chong, MD, chief medical officer, Scripps Coastal Medical Center.
“There’s an assumption that when you read a summary of the patient’s medical history, everything is known about the situation,” he adds. “So, the benefit to this approach is better engagement. Patients can trust that their partnership with their doctor will lead to a more collaborative discussion and ultimately, better care.”
A patient–centered approach at Scripps
Patients should keep shared decision-making in mind when reviewing health care options during open enrollment. Scripps physicians offer a patient-centered approach that invites collaboration and open dialogue.
“Scripps has excellent physicians. They’re knowledgeable, compassionate and are trained in comprehensive care,” Dr. Geary says.
“Your primary care physician is considered the quarterback of your health care team. In addition, we have a multidisciplinary team where we partner closely with many specialists. That comprehensive network allows us to systematically ensure that you’re getting the state-of-the-art care that you need,” she says.
Dr. Chong points out that Scripps is regularly recognized for health care excellence, and its physicians are known for providing high-quality clinical care and patient experience.
“If you have an excellent primary care physician who will engage in things like shared decision-making and open communication, you’ll be comfortable and have the trust to discuss any issues that may come up,” he says.
This content appeared in San Diego Health, a publication in partnership between Scripps and San Diego Magazine that celebrates the healthy spirit of San Diego.