Shared decision-making about colorectal cancer screening: a conceptual framework to guide research

Abstract

Objective: To develop a conceptual framework to guide research on shared decision-making about colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among persons at average risk and their providers.

Methods: Based upon a comprehensive review of empirical literature and relevant theories, a conceptual framework was developed that incorporated patient characteristics, cultural beliefs, provider/health care system variables, health belief/knowledge/stage of adoption variables, and shared decision-making between patients and providers that may predict behavior. Relationships among concepts in the framework, shared decision-making process and outcomes, and CRC screening behavior were proposed. Directions for future research were presented.

Results: Many of the concepts in the proposed framework have been examined in prior research. However, these elements have not been combined previously to explain shared decision-making about CRC screening.

Conclusion: Research is needed to test the proposed relationships and hypotheses and to refine the framework.

Practice implications: Findings from future research guided by the proposed framework may inform clinical practice to facilitate shared decision-making about CRC screening.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors of this manuscript do not have any conflicts of interest to disclose.

Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Figures

Figure 1

Conceptual framework of shared decision-making about CRC screening among average-risk patients and their providers.