An Overview of Children’s Participation in Shared Decision-making in Healthcare Settings

Abstract

Paediatric settings use shared decision-making, which is also known as the pinnacle of patient-centred care. Nevertheless, implementing shared decision-making is relatively challenging as it involves the triad constellation interaction (communication between parents, children and healthcare professionals). This article provided an overview of previous studies related to children’s involvement levels in health care decisions and the perception of children, healthcare professionals, and parents of children’s participation in shared decision-making. It was concluded that children were engaged minimally in decision-making and most children were involved in minor decisions instead of major decisions. Furthermore, there was a diverse participation pattern, which varied in the same child based on the circumstances.