Feasibility of training oncology residents in shared decision making: a pilot study

Although shared decision making (SDM) is the crux of patient-centered care, physicians are not formally trained in SDM. We conducted a pre-/post-test study with oncology residents to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a SDM training intervention. Of 20 medical residents approached, 11 participated and rated the SDM workshop favorably. Quality of SDM provided to simulated patients were median 3.5 out of 10 (range, 1-6) at baseline, eight (4-10) within 1 month, and four (2-10) within 3 months of the workshop with higher scores reflecting more elements of SDM demonstrated. Three months after the workshop, participants reported increased sense of control over providing SDM and higher perceived expectations from others to do so. It was feasible to provide SDM training and findings suggest it increased their SDM skills. Changes in behavioral intentions appear to be influenced through the pathways of perceived behavioral control and social norms.