C7
Development of decision support for patients
Johanna Finn, Mary Archer
Cambridge University Hospitals Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
Background
The project is developing materials for patients diagnosed with early stage prostate cancer, to help them decide which treatment option to choose that is best for them. The methodology is transferable for patients faced with difficult treatment decisions where there are two or more medically reasonable options.
Method
The project draws on the experience of the Foundation for Informed Medical Decision Making in Boston and the University of Ottawa, in collaboration with patients, doctors, nurses, NHS Direct Online, the Patient Information Forum, the Prostate Cancer Charity and others.
The first phase tested the implementation of a US package of decision support, and was evaluated by Picker. The second phase involves stakeholders in the development of UK materials, and a Virtual Scientific Reference Group to independently scrutinise them, prior to assessment against the International Patients Decision Aids standards.
Results
Feedback from stakeholders, pilot sites, and the Picker Institute, has led to the improvement of the original plan to include the following: (a) patients information (film and accompanying booklet); (b) patients questionnaire; and (c) staff information (film and accompanying booklet).
Conclusion
The project has developed a methodology for the development of decision aids that can be transferred to other conditions where patients are faced with difficult treatment decisions where there are two or more medically reasonable treatment options.
Acknowledgments
The Foundation for Informed Medical Decision Making and The University of Ottawa.
