Challenges in promoting shared decision-making: Towards a breakthrough in Japan.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient-Centered Care
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Shared decision-making (SDM) is underdeveloped in Japan, presenting significant challenges.
• Older adults, comprising 30% of Japan's population, face difficulties in treatment and care decisions.
• The necessity of decision support and patient involvement for complex choices is not widely acknowledged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the current state and challenges of promoting shared decision-making (SDM) in Japan.
• To emphasize the need for improved decision support for older adults in healthcare settings.
• To advocate for continuous development of healthcare professional activities supporting patient decision-making.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the current landscape of SDM in Japan.
• Review of challenges faced by older adults in healthcare decision-making.
• Examination of ongoing initiatives by healthcare professionals and policy guidelines.

Main Results:

• SDM is nascent in Japan, with notable barriers to its widespread adoption.
• Older populations require tailored decision support to navigate treatment choices effectively.
• Healthcare professionals are developing continuous activities to aid patient decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Establishing dedicated SDM training sites and ensuring continuous management are crucial.
• Increased recognition of decision-making support is anticipated due to policy and academic efforts.
• Implementing robust SDM practices will benefit both patients and healthcare providers in Japan.