Shared decision making in pediatric dermatology: context, opportunities, and practical examples.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dermatology
• Patient-Centered Care
• Health Outcomes Research

Background:

• Shared decision making (SDM) is integral to patient-centered care, yet its application in pediatric dermatology is limited.
• Both children and their guardians express a desire for SDM in clinical settings.
• Current research on SDM and specific decision aids for pediatric dermatology is scarce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide practical examples of implementing SDM in pediatric dermatology.
• To identify future research directions for SDM in pediatric dermatology.
• To encourage the adoption of SDM in pediatric dermatology practice.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing SDM practices and research in pediatric dermatology.
• Analysis of patient and clinician perspectives on SDM.
• Identification of barriers and facilitators to SDM implementation.

Main Results:

• SDM is underutilized and under-researched in pediatric dermatology.
• Practical strategies for integrating SDM into medical and surgical pediatric dermatology consultations were identified.
• Opportunities for SDM in preparing pediatric patients for transition to adult care were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Implementing SDM in pediatric dermatology is feasible and beneficial for patient-centered care.
• Further research is needed to develop and evaluate SDM tools and interventions specific to pediatric dermatology.
• Addressing the underuse of SDM can improve patient engagement and outcomes in pediatric dermatology.