Shared decision-making

Shared decision-making puts patients at the centre of decisions about their care and treatment. It is a discussion where a healthcare professional, such as a GP or hospital consultant, supports a patient to reach a decision about their treatment.

Illustrated characters reminding you that It's OK to ask questions at your health appointment

When you have an appointment with a healthcare professional, you may need to make choices about your healthcare.   

If there are different treatment options available to you, your healthcare professional will share their expert opinion on your treatment. They will explain treatment options, medical evidence, risks and benefits.  

You know your personal circumstances best and so it’s important for you to share your  how the options will affect you and to talk about your preferences, personal circumstances, values and beliefs, and your health goals. Let the healthcare professional know about anything you are doing to manage your condition.  

It’s also OK to ask questions to help you understand what’s going on with your health and raise any worries you might have.  Then, you and your healthcare professional can discuss your options and together, you can find the right choice for you. 

This is conversation is known as shared decision-making. It will help you make better decisions about your care and treatment.  

Preparing for your appointment 

Before your appointment with a health and care professional, please consider the following questions: 

Information:

What matters to me? 
What is important to me? 
What am I worried or concerned about? 

You might also want to consider whether it would be helpful to have someone attend the appointment with you. 

Questions to ask at your appointment 

Here are four key questions it is worth remembering to ask at your appointment. 

Your healthcare professional will be able to explain why they think a certain treatment would be the best option for you compared to other available treatments. 

Your healthcare professional will be able to explain the risks or possible side effects of your treatment and reassure you about any concerns you may have. 

Your healthcare professional will be able to outline any alternative treatments that may be available to you. 

Your healthcare professional can explain what may happen if you choose not to go ahead with your planned treatment. 

Our healthcare staff are more than happy to answer these and any other questions you may have. 

Feel better informed and prepared for your next appointment, and remember, it’s OK to ask. 

Download our leaflet which includes a blank space on the back so you can take your own notes. 

It's Ok to Ask leaflet (139kB pdf)

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