1. Shared Decision Making allows you, the patient, to be an equal partner in your health care, working with your doctor or nurse to make an informed decision about your treatment.
2. While clinicians may be treatment experts, you, as the patient, are “an expert in yourself”.
3. Always remember to ‘Ask 3 questions’:

• What are my options?
• What are the pros and cons of each option for me?
• How do I get support to help me make a decision that is right for me?

The key messages for commissioners are:

1. Shared decision making is a key priority, and is the cornerstone of current national health care policies
2. The delivery of shared decision making will require change across whole systems
3. Commissioners have a range of contract management levers through which they can drive and support that change
4. Patients who are informed and involved are more likely to be satisfied with their treatment options
5. Implementing SDM can reduce variations in interventions
6. Given informed choice, many patients choose less radical treatments, which may result in savings.

Key messages for provider organisations and the voluntary sector:

1. There is enormous potential to be realised when patients are joint decision makers in their own treatment options
2. Patients are more likely to be satisfied with their healthcare experience
3. Patients are more likely to adhere to their chosen treatment
4. Clinical outcomes and safety are improved
5. Shared decision making helps to break down the barriers of jargon, experience and the perceived hierarchical relationship between patients and their health care advisors.