Refining a primary care shared decision-making aid for lifestyle change: a mixed-methods study

Abstract

BackgroundThe important role of primary care in promoting healthy lifestyle behaviours needs informed support.AimTo elicit views on a 39-item shared decision-making (SDM) aid (SHARE-D) for lifestyle change and refine it to improve implementation.Design & settingMixed methods study.MethodHealth professionals, patients, and support workers, with experience of managing, or a history of, cardio- or cerebrovascular disease, were purposively recruited based on age, gender, and urban/rural location (n = 34). Participants completed a survey, rating the importance of including each item in a decision-aid, designed for use by patients with health professionals, and suggesting modifications. Semi-structured interviews (n = 30/34) were conducted and analysed thematically.ResultsSubstantial agreement was observed on rating item inclusion. Based on survey and interview data, 9/39 items were removed; 13 were amended. Qualitative themes were: (i) core content of the decision-aid, (ii) barriers to use, (iii) motivation for lifestyle change, and (iv) primary care implementation. ‘Self-reflective’ questions and goal setting were viewed as essential components. The paper-based format, length, clarity, and time required were barriers to its use. Optional support considered within the aid was seen as important to motivate change. A digital version, integrated into patient record systems was regarded as critical to implementation. A revised 30-item aid was considered suitable for facilitating brief conversations and promoting patient autonomy.ConclusionThe SHARE-D decision aid for healthy lifestyle change appears to have good content validity and acceptability. Survey and interview data provided in-depth information to support implementation of a refined version. Further studies should examine its effectiveness.

Shared Decision-Making Training in Family Medicine Residency: A Scoping Review

“…14) Structured and standardized training activities have been shown to improve the implementation of SDM in clinical practice. [15][16][17] However, the literature on training or educational programs for SDM in family medicine residency and their impact is limited. This study aimed to explore the impact of SDM training in family medicine residency.…”