Shared decision making means working together with your healthcare professional to choose the care or treatment that is right for you. It involves open conversations, clear information, and a shared understanding of your needs, preferences, and goals.
Shared decision making is an important part of personalised care. It helps ensure your treatment reflects what matters most to you.
What shared decision making means for you
Shared decision making allows you to take an active role in your healthcare. Your healthcare professional will explain your options and support you in making an informed choice.
Shared decision making includes:
- discussing your symptoms, concerns, and personal goals
- explaining the benefits and risks of different treatment options
- giving you time to ask questions and consider your choices
- providing written information or decision support tools
- agreeing a care plan that reflects your values and preferences
This process ensures your care plan is safe, appropriate, and tailored to you.
Why shared decision making is important
Shared decision making improves communication between patients and healthcare professionals. It helps you understand your options and feel confident in your decisions.
Shared decision making can help you:
- understand your condition and treatment options
- make informed choices about your care
- feel more confident about your treatment plan
- improve your overall experience of NHS care
Healthcare professionals will support you throughout the decision-making process.
Your right to be involved in decisions about your care
You have the right to be involved in decisions about your NHS care. This right is set out in the NHS Constitution.
If you need more information or time to think, you can tell your healthcare professional. They will support you and answer your questions.
You can also bring a family member, carer, or friend to appointments for support.
Find out more
You can access tools and information about shared decision making on the NHS England website.
These resources can help you prepare for appointments and make informed choices about your treatment.