Introduction Shared decision making (SDM) is a strategy to facilitate patient-centered care and is becoming increasingly important in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study aimed to understand the views of IBD patients and gastroenterologists regarding SDM and more specifically: i) the potential role and their understanding of SDM, ii) barriers and facilitators for implementing SDM in IBD clinical practice.

Methods In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were held with IBD patients (n=15), and gastroenterologists (n=11) in Belgium. Interviews were transcribed ad verbatim and analyzed using thematic framework analysis. Ottowa Model of Research Use (OMRU) was used as guiding model to identify barriers and facilitators for implementing SDM¹]

Results While the importance of SDM in IBD was recognized by most participants, some were either unaware of the concept of SDM or had misconceptions about it. Furthermore, the study found several barriers and facilitators for implementing SDM in IBD clinical practice (table 1). Participants highlighted the importance of the IBD nurse and education about SDM for physicians to overcome these barriers.

Discussion Even though participants recognized the importance of SDM in managing IBD, a lack of time and belief in traditional decision models among other factors hinder its systematic implementation. The gastroenterologist should adopt a patient-centric approach, incorporating SDM that considers each patients’ distinct needs and obstacles.

Conclusion This study underlines the necessity for education and training on SDM specifically for gastroenterologists in Belgium. Additionally, patient organizations can contribute to raising awareness about SDM.

Reference

1. Boland L, Graham ID, Légaré F, Lewis K, Jull J, Shephard A, et al. Barriers and facilitators of pediatric shared decision-making: a systematic review. Implementat Sci 2019;14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-018-0851-5.