Shared decision making is a collaborative process where clinicians and individuals consider treatment options based on evidence about their potential benefits and harms, to enable the person to decide the best course for themselves. The conversation and decision made should be informed by what matters to the person, their goals, values, hopes, ideas, concerns and expectations.

When people are listened to, given the information they need and the time and support to make informed decisions about their care and treatment, they have the potential for better outcomes and experiences of care.

The information standard on shared decision making provides a framework for clinicians to record the decision-making process between themselves and their patients. The standard also allows the shared decision information to be shared between professionals and their different record systems. The standard has been developed based on the GMC guidance on shared decision-making and consent and the NICE guidelines.

• The standard was developed with UK wide consultation and engagement to meet the needs of all four UK nations.
• The standard is intended for all areas of healthcare except for the noted exclusions
• The standard covers all ages including children

• Elective surgery
• Multiple long-term conditions
• Mental Health
• Genetic conditions
• Polypharmacy
• Orthopaedics
• Gynaecology
• Children and dentistry

• Maternity – The standard may work for maternity, but it is believed that this complex area justifies specific additional work and potentially an extended standard.
• Social Care – The Shared Decision Making Standard is defined for clinical uses and the consultation was targeted at healthcare professionals not social care professionals. However the standard’s principles may work in social care and in the future the standard could potentially be adapted for use in social care.