Symplur: Shared Decision Making

Shared decision making (SDM) is a collaborative approach to healthcare that involves patients, healthcare providers, and families working together to make informed decisions about medical treatment options.

The goal of SDM is to ensure that patients are fully informed about their health status, the risks and benefits of different treatment options, and the impact of their choices on their health outcomes. It involves a two-way conversation between the healthcare provider and the patient, in which the provider provides information, guidance, and support, and the patient shares their values, preferences, and goals.

In SDM, patients and healthcare providers work together to determine the best course of action for the patient, taking into account the patient’s unique medical situation, health status, and personal goals. This approach is based on the principle that patients are active participants in their own care and should be involved in making decisions about their treatment.

SDM has been shown to improve patient satisfaction, health outcomes, and the quality of care. It can also help to reduce the likelihood of medical errors and improve the cost-effectiveness of healthcare by avoiding unnecessary or ineffective treatments.

Overall, shared decision making is an important aspect of patient-centered care and an essential component of a patient-centered healthcare system.