Shared Decision-Making in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Management Associated with Increased Physician Trust

When people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) actively participate in shared decision-making (SDM) about their disease with their doctors’, trust is likely to increase. A new study found that patient-doctor SDM increases trust and enhances the doctor-patient relationship, as well as overall confidence in healthcare, treatment efficacy and treatment options. 

In the TRUMP2-SLE study, researchers asked 433 people with SLE across multiple health centers in Japan to complete a SDM questionnaire. Their responses were scored for interpersonal trust with a physician and trust in the medical profession using two different measurement models. An analysis of the responses of the questionnaire found that, at 1-year mark, the more people with SLE that were involved in SDM with their physician, the more likely they were to have established greater trust in their rheumatologists and general physicians. 

Improvement in physician trust through deep involvement in shared decision-making can improve behavioral and health outcomes. Learn more about preparing for your doctor appointment.

Read the study