Shared decision-making in serious mental illness : A comparative study

Objective
To compare consumer and mental health professionals’ (MHPs) preferences for decision-making in China and Europe.

Methods
This study used cross-sectional design; Chinese data were collected by questionnaires and European data were obtained from the literature. Data were analysed using t-test, One-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficient as appropriate.

Results
This study involved 800 people diagnosed with severe mental illness and 506 MHPs. Chinese participants rated lower scores on preference for participation in decision-making (PD = 1.88) and information (IN = 2.70) than European participants (PD = 2.05, IN = 2.83). Chinese consumers rated a higher score on IN (2.78) but lower on for PD (1.75) than MHPs (IN = 2.64, PD = 1.97). Chinese consumers’ education level is positively associated with preference for PD and IN. The gender, occupation and age of Chinese MHPs are associated with preference for PD.

Conclusion
Both Chinese and Europeans had preference for shared involvement in mental health, while the preference in China is less. Opinions of consumers and MHPs might be different, regarding the level of patient involvement in specific decisions.

Practice implication
It is essential that consumers’ preferences are understood for provision of optimal support for a shared decision-making approach.