### Question
How is the term patient decision aid defined?


### Answer
The term **patient decision aid** is defined in *42 U.S.C. § 299b* as the following:

> an educational tool that helps patients, caregivers or authorized representatives understand and communicate their beliefs and preferences related to their treatment options, and to decide with their health care provider what treatments are best for them based on their treatment options, scientific evidence, circumstances, beliefs, and preferences

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 299b*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 6A-PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE > SUBCHAPTER VII-AGENCY FOR HEALTHCARE RESEARCH AND QUALITY > Part D-Health Care Quality Improvement > subpart 2-health care quality improvement programs**

