Patients involved in the decision-making process for orthopedic surgeries leads to reduced decisional conflict and improved outcomes, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
The paper, published in the journal's December issue, focuses on how shared decision-making empowers patients to make educated decisions aligned with their views.
The strategy has been shown to reduce decisional conflict and increase patient knowledge and satisfaction, according to researchers.
"Shared decision-making is a partnership fueled by a discussion that should be initiated by the physician," Robert Probe, MD, said in a Dec. 8 news release.
Many orthopedic surgeons lack an understanding of how to engage in shared-decision making, according to Dr. Probe. "While some physicians can naturally communicate and already incorporate [shared-decision making] in patient care, there are still a lot who don't."
The paper aims to raise awareness and educate patients and the orthopedic community about shared-decision making.