Creating a new way to assess shared decision-making for individuals who can't advocate for themselves
Developing a Standardized Process Assessment for Relationship-Centered Shared Decision-Making (SPARCSdm)
This study is working on a new way to help doctors and caregivers make decisions together with patients who have trouble communicating or understanding, so everyone can feel more included and supported in the decision-making process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883587 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a standardized assessment tool to evaluate the process of shared decision-making (SDM) for individuals who lack the cognitive ability to make decisions or communicate their wishes. The project involves observing and analyzing interactions between patients, practitioners, and care partners to identify key skills and elements that contribute to effective SDM. By training assessors to evaluate these interactions, the research seeks to create a reliable tool that can improve the decision-making process for vulnerable patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cognitive impairments who are unable to make decisions or communicate their healthcare preferences.
Not a fit: Patients who are fully capable of advocating for themselves and making informed decisions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the quality of care and decision-making for patients who cannot advocate for themselves, ensuring their needs and preferences are better represented.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of assessing shared decision-making processes is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in enhancing patient-centered care in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- George Washington University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mallinson, Trudy Ruth — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Mallinson, Trudy Ruth
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.