SHARED DECISION MAKING: MANAGING NON-CRITICAL CHRONIC ILLNESS BY COMBINING BEHAVIOURAL & DECISION THEORY WITH ONLINE TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

Shared decision making between patient and provider is considered the cornerstone of patient-centred care but transpires in only 10% of face-to-face encounters. Technology interventions have been explored as a means of filling the shared decision making gap but fall short in patient engagement. Recent studies indicate that combining multiple approaches could lead to greater commitment towards achieving positive health outcomes. The objective of this study is to demonstrate that a behavioural theory and decision theory can complement one another within a technology intervention for shared decision making. This novel approach integrates multiple theories within a single computerized ontology knowledge model that is flexible, expressive and extensible. A mixed method study assessed the solution using goal-based scenarios for hypertension reduction. Usability data was captured primarily using the “think aloud protocol”. Both quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed independently and in combination, revealing two-thirds of the study participants favoured the technology intervention.