Introduction Patients in oncology want to be involved in healthcare decisions. To prepare patients to actively participate in decision-making, we aimed to develop and pilot test a generic decision guide (DG) for patients in oncology as part of the TARGET project funded by the German Innovation Fund.

Methods The study was conducted between 08.2022 and 03.2023 using the MRC framework for the development and evaluation of complex interventions. A systematic review was performed to identify information needs and available decision support tools (DST) in MEDLINE via Pubmed, PsycInfo and CINAHL. The feasibility, user-friendliness and acceptance by the target group were tested with guided individual interviews. Experts (developer of decision support tools and psycho-oncologists) were invited to review the DG. Interview transcripts were qualitatively analyzed according to Kuckartz using the software MAXQDA®. The DG was iteratively optimized according to the results.

Results Based on the Ottawa Personal Decision Guide and the information needs, a generic DG for oncology patients was developed in a PDF- and web-based format. Decision-related questions from question prompt lists for patients in oncology were added. Seven cancer patients, two medical laypersons and one caregiver were interviewed. The results showed good feasibility, usability and acceptance of the DG. The tool was perceived as detailed and appropriate. Individual elements needed to be adapted in order to improve comprehensibility.

Discussion The study showed that a generic decision guide adapted to the specific needs of oncology patients was appreciated by the target group as useful and supportive, especially to facilitate values-based decision-making. It can be used as single intervention or combined with decision coaching.

Conclusion(s) Further steps are needed to implement the DG into oncology care pathways.