Introduction Incorporating shared decision-making (SDM) is a central part of patient empowerment, as it facilitates greater activation, gaining control over their care and developing skills to solve their health problems. Despite these benefits, there are still difficulties in implementing SDM among healthcare professionals due to internal and external factors related to the context and health systems. Aim: To explore in a virtual community of practice (VCoP) the perceptions of primary care professionals (PCPs) about the SDM model based on their preconceptions and experience in clinical practice.

Methods A framework analysis was conducted on qualitative data derived from a VCoP forum, within a cluster-randomised clinical trial developed in the e-MPODERA project.

Results The most important aspects related to SDM from the PCPs perspective included: exploring the patients’ values, preferences and expectations, providing them with up-to-date and evidence-based information, checking their understanding. In the subsequent analysis, three categories emerged as the most relevant issues: determinants of the implementation of SDM, lack of consistency and dilemmas, and benefits of PCPs active listening, motivation and positive expectations of SDM.

Discussion In our initial analysis, we examined connections between SDM model categories and their application in Primary Care. Categories tied to the model reflect professionals’ theoretical understanding, while those concerning implementation perceptions show inconsistencies. These disparities may signify either a comprehension gap regarding the model and its real-world implications or an inadequate commitment from professionals or the organization towards its effective implementation.

Conclusions Specific targeted training that addresses knowledge, attitudes and practice may resolve the aforementioned findings.