How is "shared decision-making" defined in healthcare?

Shared decision-making in healthcare is defined as a collaborative approach between clinicians and patients to make informed healthcare decisions. This process involves both parties engaging in open conversations about the patient's values, preferences, and treatment options. The goal is to ensure that patients are active participants in their care, taking into account both medical evidence and personal preferences to reach a decision that aligns with their individual needs and lifestyle.

This collaboration helps to foster a strong patient-clinician relationship and enhances the likelihood that patients will follow through with chosen treatment plans. By balancing clinical expertise with patient-centered considerations, shared decision-making leads to better health outcomes and higher satisfaction among patients.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of shared decision-making. For instance, while patients play a critical role, they do not solely lead medical choices; rather, they work alongside clinicians. Patient surveys and administrative decision-making also do not align with the concept of shared decision-making, which is fundamentally about joint decision-making in clinical contexts.