Shared decision-making preferences of people with severe mental illness.
OBJECTIVE
Perceived roles and preferences were explored for shared decision making among persons with severe mental illnesses.


METHODS
In this pilot study, 30 adult clients with severe mental illness in a community mental health center were surveyed about decision making regarding psychiatric medications, rehabilitation, and general medical care.


RESULTS
Clients generally expressed a desire for greater participation in decisions about psychiatric care than they currently experienced. Regarding use of new psychiatric medications, 23 persons (77%) preferred autonomous or shared roles, but only 11 (37%) rated their current roles as more than passive (z=-2.83, p=.005). Clients were less likely to prefer a passive role in medication decisions about psychiatric care than about general medical care (seven persons, or 23%, versus 23 persons, or 77%; z=-3.01, p=.003).


CONCLUSIONS
Most clients with severe mental illnesses prefer shared decision making, particularly in relation to their mental health care.
Adams
Jared R
JR
Dartmouth Medical School, 400 Kellogg Bldg., Hanover, NH 03755, USA. jared.adams@dartmouth.edu
Drake
Robert E
RE
Wolford
George L
GL
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D009513:New Hampshire; D010358:Patient Participation; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires