Comprehensive consent in urology using decision aids, leaflets, videos and newer technologies: empowering patient choice and shared decision-making

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the usage of decision aids, patient information leaflets (PILs), videos, social media and modern technology to empower patients and enable shared decision-making (SDM). It explores the role of enhanced consent processes in urology. A re-evaluation of the conventional consent process is required towards more patient-centred care and SDM, which prioritises patient education and understanding of their medical conditions and treatment pathways. The use of decision aids, such as multimedia resources and PILs, is crucial in enhancing patients’ understanding, level of satisfaction, quality of life and healthcare utilisation. New tools are opening exciting possibilities for patient education and information distribution, such as Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT). The effectiveness of ChatGPT in comparison to well-established PILs is still up for debate, despite the fact that it makes information easily accessible. Improving patients’ involvement, understanding and engagement in SDM procedures relies heavily on decision aids, PILs and current technological integration. Patients and healthcare practitioners should work together in accordance with the principles of SDM, which include considering patients’ values, backgrounds, priorities and preferences when making treatment decisions. The emphasis on patient-centred care has prompted a re-evaluation of traditional consent processes in urology, with more emphasis on the shared decision-making process. Several informative aids are currently available as reported in the literature, ranging from 3D models, multimedia presentations and virtual reality (VR) devices. While the costs of these tools might be substantial, the advantages of adopting such informative resources are unmistakable. Social media and platforms such as patient–physician blogs are increasingly popular sources of medical information. Urologists should embrace these platforms to enhance patient engagement and the quality of information provided. Despite recent progress, there remains significant room for improvement in patient education and engagement which is achievable via concerted efforts of a wider medical community.