Shared Decision Making and Reducing the Use of Low-Value Occupational Therapy Interventions

Area of Science:

• Health Policy
• Occupational Therapy
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Shared decision making (SDM) is crucial for value-based, client-centered occupational therapy.
• The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act emphasizes patient-centered care models and quality indicators.
• Occupational therapy practitioners need to be prepared to implement SDM effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide considerations for occupational therapy practitioners on using Choosing Wisely recommendations.
• To facilitate client engagement in shared decision making (SDM).
• To promote the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based care in occupational therapy.

Main Methods:

• This article presents a policy perspective on integrating SDM into occupational therapy practice.
• It discusses the application of Choosing Wisely recommendations as a tool for SDM.
• Focuses on practical considerations for practitioners.

Main Results:

• Choosing Wisely recommendations can serve as a practical framework for SDM in occupational therapy.
• Implementing SDM aligns with current healthcare policy trends and quality indicators.
• This integration supports client autonomy and preference representation.

Conclusions:

• Occupational therapy practitioners can leverage Choosing Wisely to enhance SDM.
• This strategy promotes client-centered, evidence-based occupational therapy services.
• Preparedness for SDM is essential for practitioners in the evolving healthcare landscape.