Guides: Shared Decision Making: Tools

Decision Aids

What are patient decision aids?

"Patient decision aids are written materials or videos that help people make better health and healthcare decisions. They are designed to provide the options based on research findings and allow people to consider what fits best with their personal situation and preferences. Patient Decision Aids can be used on their own or with health professionals. Many health professional groups recommend their use."

- The Ottawa Hospital - Patient Decision Aids Research Group

The SURE Test

Légaré, F., Kearing, S., Clay, K., Gagnon, S., D'Amours, D., Rousseau, M., & O'Connor, A. (2010). Are you SURE?: Assessing patient decisional conflict with a 4-item screening test. Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien, 56(8), e308–e314.

Examples of Decision Aids

The Ottawa Hospital: A to Z Inventory of Patient Decision Aids

Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care: Tools & Resources

Choosing Wisely Canada Recommendations

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Tools for Patients | Shared Decision Making

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center: Decision Support Tool Gallery

PEER Decision Aid Toolbox

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence: Patient Decision Aids

Infographics

What is an infographic?

"A visual image such as a chart or diagram used to represent information or data in an easily understandable form."

- Oxford English Dictionary

"Infographics are an innovative and engaging method of visually communicating information in a colourful and concise manner. Evidence suggests that the representation of information in graphic format enhances our understanding and ability to make decisions."

- McCrorie, A. D., Donnelly, C., & McGlade, K. J. (2016). Infographics: Healthcare Communication for the Digital Age. The Ulster medical journal, 85(2), 71–75.