The effect of a scalable online training module for shared decision making based on flawed video examples-a randomized controlled trial

Objective: Shared Decision Making (SDM) is considered the gold standard of medical decision making as it provides a method to systematically integrate the patient's preferences, evidence-based medicine and the experience of health care professionals. Therefore, evidence-based training methods for a broad implementation into healthcare are needed. A new online training was designed, based on the concept of flawed/flawless video examples and additional educational concepts. Methods: In a single-blind randomized-controlled trial, medical students were randomly assigned to intervention group receiving the online training (n = 82) or waiting control group (n = 105). SDM-related knowledge and the ability to judge distinct levels of SDM were compared between both groups. Additionally, feedback regarding the intervention was collected. Results: SDM-related knowledge and judging ability increased significantly in the intervention group compared to controls (SDM knowledge: mean difference: 12 %; 95 % CI: 7.3-18.5; p < 0.001; SDM judging ability (inter-rater concordance displayed by weighted t): mean difference: 0.07; 95 %CI: 0.03-0.11; p = 0.001). Feedback was positive. Conclusion: The online training with its distinctive methodology prove effective. As it shares the theoretical and didactical background with an already existing face-to-face training, both approaches may also be used complementarily. Practice Implications: SDM can be trained effectively and efficiently with this easily scalable online training. (c) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Shared Decision Making (SDM) is considered the gold standard of medical decision-making, and a new online training method based on flawed/flawless video examples and additional educational concepts has been proven effective in increasing SDM-related knowledge and judging ability. Feedback regarding the intervention was positive, indicating the success of the training approach.