The BIHAM has collaborated with other Swiss institutions and researchers to test and implement participatory decision-making (PEF; also called shared decision-making or SDM) in primary care. Together, we developed or adapted tools that promote PEF, working with primary care professionals in family medicine and pharmacy (including practice assistants), patients, and professionals in specialized medicine, epidemiology, and laboratory sciences). In all cases, we follow the principles of participatory research.
PEF, the recommended ethical form of interaction between healthcare professionals and patients, is evidence-based. Participants actively exchange information to inform their joint decision. The PEF model encourages patients to play a great role in decision-making and takes their preferences and values into account. In PEF, healthcare professionals share their clinical experience and expertise, making it easier for patients to understand which diagnostic and/or treatment options align with their preferences and values.
To effectively implement PEF, healthcare professionals rely on evidence-based information sheets and consultation tools that make it easier for them to share their knowledge with patients and help patients better understand the benefits and risks of diagnostic and/or treatment options so patients and healthcare professionals can integrate those preferences and values into diagnostic and treatment decisions.
