What should decision aids include to be effective?

To create effective decision aids, it is crucial that they include an explanation of the condition and treatment options available. This information serves as the foundation for informed decision-making, allowing individuals to understand the nature of their condition, potential risks, benefits, and the impact of various treatment options. Providing clear, accessible details on these aspects empowers clients to weigh their choices more effectively, leading to a more collaborative approach to their care.

While other elements like client preferences and health goals or family opinions and treatment preferences are important for personalized care, the core function of a decision aid is to educate and inform. By first ensuring that individuals comprehend their medical situation and the available options, the decision aid can better facilitate discussions about preferences and goals that align with the individual's values and circumstances. General health information alone, without specific context to the individual's condition or treatment choices, does not contribute significantly to making informed decisions. Thus, having a robust explanation of the condition and treatment options is critical for the overall effectiveness of decision aids.