Do socio-economically disadvantaged patients prefer shared decision-making?

Area of Science:

• Healthcare research
• Patient-centered care
• Health equity

Background:

• Shared decision-making involves patients and clinicians collaborating on healthcare choices.
• A common misconception is that socio-economically disadvantaged patients avoid participating in shared decision-making.
• This study examined patient preferences for shared decision-making in a South African primary care setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the preference for shared decision-making among patients attending a Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic.
• To challenge the perception that socio-economically disadvantaged patients are unwilling to engage in shared decision-making.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the Control Preference Scale.
• 150 patients were purposively selected from the Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic at Kalafong Hospital.
• Data were collected between February 2016 and May 2016.

Main Results:

• Nearly half (46%) of surveyed patients expressed an active preference for shared decision-making.
• The median age of patients was 52 years, with 53% having not completed secondary education.
• Median monthly income was R3200.00 (South African Rand), below $200.00 USD.
• No significant association was found between demographic factors or disease status and the preference for shared decision-making.

Conclusions:

• The study refutes the notion that socio-economically disadvantaged patients do not desire active participation in healthcare decisions.
• Clinicians should routinely inquire about patient preferences for shared decision-making.
• Healthcare providers need training and supportive environments to effectively implement shared decision-making practices.