Client preferences affect treatment satisfaction, completion, and clinical outcome: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Health Services Research
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Client preferences and involvement in decision-making are increasingly recognized as important factors in healthcare.
• Previous research suggests a potential link between client preferences and treatment outcomes, but a comprehensive synthesis is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis evaluating the impact of client preferences on treatment satisfaction, completion rates, and clinical outcomes.
• To synthesize evidence from empirical studies examining shared decision-making and treatment choice.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search identified 34 empirical articles representing 32 unique clinical trials.
• Studies included randomized controlled trials with active choice conditions or assessments of client preferences.
• Effect sizes were calculated for treatment satisfaction, completion, and clinical outcome.

Main Results:

• Clients receiving preferred treatments or involved in shared decision-making reported higher treatment satisfaction (ESd=.34).
• Treatment completion rates were significantly increased (ESOR=1.37; ESd=.17) for clients with preferred treatments.
• Superior clinical outcomes were observed in clients whose preferences were met (ESd=.15).
• These effects remained consistent across various moderating variables like study design, setting, and client diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Assessing and incorporating client preferences into treatment planning yields significant clinical benefits.
• Providing treatment choices and involving clients in decisions enhances satisfaction, adherence, and therapeutic results.
• Client-centered approaches are crucial for optimizing healthcare delivery and patient well-being.