Lesson 2.3 — Shared Decision-Making
Shared decision-making is not listing three options and asking the patient to choose. Your role is to explain relevant options, connect them to the patient’s priorities, give a professional recommendation where appropriate and check that the final plan is workable.
Elicit priorities and preferences. Discuss realistic options. Agree a plan together. Check understanding, feasibility and what happens next.
Case 5 — Choosing between management options
A patient has two reasonable treatment approaches. One may control symptoms faster; the other fits better with her wish to avoid sedation because she drives for work.
“I cannot be drowsy at work. I drive all day.”
Listing both treatments without using the work information.
“Because driving is such an important part of your job, the possibility of drowsiness matters here. Let’s compare the options with that in mind.”
You demonstrate that the patient’s life has changed how you frame the decision.
Close with: “Of those options, which feels most workable for you?” and confirm safety considerations.