What is the importance of involving the patient in shared decision making?
In accordance with the principle of autonomy, the healthcare provider is obliged to solicit and respect the patient's preferences about choice of therapy. The concept of shared decision making is increasingly viewed as an approach that ensures that patients remain involved in key decisions and are informed about the risks, benefits, and costs of their chosen treatment plan. This allows the patient to make an informed decision about their health care that is tailored to their individual needs and preferences.