Information for patients, relatives and carers
What is Shared Decision Making?
Shared Decision Making puts you at the centre of your care. By Working together with your health and social care team, we can make the best decisions for your treatment and well-being.
How does it work?
- Information: Your health care team clearly explains your options, benefits and risks.
- Discussion: You have the opportunity to as questions, share your goals, values and preferences.
- Decision: You agree together on the best plans for you.
The three questions
Asking these three questions can help guide your decision making around your healthcare:
- What are my options?
This question helps you understand the different options available and can help you explore the choices you have.
- What are the pros and cons of each option?
This question helps you think about the benefits and risks of your choice, and how likely it is for you to reach your healthcare goals.
- How do I get support to help make a decision that is right for me?
This question helps you find the support you need to make your choice. Whether this may be more information, talking with your healthcare team or involving family or friends.
What Shared Decision Making means for you?
- Choose how much you want to be involved in decisions about your health or care.
- Your needs and preferences are listened to and respected.
- You can involve a relative, friend or carers in your discussions about what matters to you most.
- You become better informed about your care, which can lead to improved outcomes.
Why Shared Decision Making matters
- You are better informed about your condition and options
- You are more involved and satisfied with your care.
- You are more likely to follow your treatment plan.
- You are less likely to regret your decisions.
Your Choice, Your Care
- Discuss and understand the benefits, ricks and outcomes of each option.
- Decide the treatment that’s right for you, even if that means continuing care or choosing no treatment.
- Decide how involved you want to be actively involved in making decisions, or guided by your care treatment.
Where can I find more information about Shared Decision Making?
The Patient and Client Council can support you, along with your relative, friend or carer through the decision-making process with advocacy support.
For further details, contact:
- Telephone: 0800 917 0222
- Email: info@pcc-ni.net
For more information, visit the Engage website, or watch the ‘Shared Decision Making – You and I Together’ video below.
Useful resources
Department of Health – Shared Decision Making (PDF)
NICE Guidelines
Engage involvement resources
Patient Decision Aids