TABLE 1

Essential elements of shared decision-making

1 Define the problem
How is the pain affecting the patient’s quality of life and ability to function?
2 Present and discuss treatment options
Consider nonpharmacologic (eg, physical therapy), pharmacologic, and procedural options
3 Discuss benefits, risks, and costs
Consider efficacy, adverse effects, availability, monitoring needs, and other risks
4 Explore the patient’s values and preferences
Discuss ideas, concerns, and outcome expectations
5 Discuss the physician’s treatment recommendations
Base recommendations on medical knowledge and patient preferences
6 Discuss the patient’s ability to follow through on the treatment plan
Can the patient realistically adhere to appointments, tests, and referral plans?
7 Clarify understanding
Consider the patient’s health literacy and assess the patient’s understanding of options
8 Make or defer decision
Make a treatment plan or delay until additional input (eg, from family) can be gathered
9 Arrange follow-up
Create a plan to follow up and modify or continue the treatment decision