Implementation of Shared Decision-Making in Australia

Abstract

Shared decision-making (SDM) is the process of clinicians and patients participating jointly in making healthcare decisions, having discussed evidence-based treatment options and the potential risks and benefits of each option, taking into consideration the patient’s individual preferences and values. SDM is ubiquitous in Australian healthcare policy. While there is good evidence for utilising SDM, clinicians’ knowledge of SDM, the current uptake, effectiveness and acceptability of SDM in Australia is largely unknown. The challenges perceived by clinicians to implementing SDM in clinical practice and potential moral, legal and ethical dilemmas require further debate and consideration.

Abbreviations: SDM – Shared Decision-Making.