Scoping review indicates heterogeneous methods for developing and integrating patient decision aids in the context of clinical practice guidelines

Objectives

To review the methods used to develop and integrate patient decision aids (PDAs) based on the recommendations of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs).

Study Design and Setting

We conducted a scoping review covering bibliographic databases (PubMed, Embase; searched until December 2023), gray literature, references, and expert consultations to identify eligible documents. Documents published from 2000 onwards and describing methods related to guideline-based PDA development or linking CPGs and PDAs were included. Two reviewers independently selected and analyzed the documents. Results were synthesized and presented narratively.

Results

Based on 24 included documents, we categorized their methods into 4 topics. For topic (1), the selection of CPG recommendations for which PDAs are (most) needed, we found a total of 14 selection factors across n = 11 documents, with uncertainty/variability in patient preferences and trade-offs between options being the most frequently mentioned. Topic (2) (n = 24) covers methods for developing and/or updating guideline-based PDAs, such as forming a multidisciplinary development group, using CPGs and their evidence summaries along with other sources as the evidence base, and using digital solutions for semi-automated development and updating. Topic (3) (n = 12) covers methods for PDA quality assessment and/or user testing, such as finalizing and approving the PDAs after a review and feedback process from the CPG group and an iterative user testing process. Topic (4) (n = 20) covers methods for linking CPGs and PDAs, often through digital strategies.

Conclusion

We identified heterogeneous methods for developing and integrating PDAs based on CPG recommendations. Empirical testing is required to determine the most useful and practically feasible (combination of) methods. CPG organizations should focus on establishing adequate methods for linking CPG and PDA development to foster shared decision-making.