Development and Evaluation of Computer-Based Versions of the Decision Board for Early Breast Cancer
Abstract
Women with breast cancer have indicated their desire to be involved in decisions about their care. We have developed a decision aid, called the Decision Board, for women regarding choices in breast cancer with respect to surgical treatment and adjuvant chemotherapy. Randomized trials have demonstrated that the Decision Board not only increases patient knowledge, but improves patient satisfaction, decreases decisional conflict, and facilitates shared decision-making between the physician and the patient. This present study builds on previous work and involves the development of versions of the Decision Board using different types of media in order to improve the effectiveness of these instruments. Two new versions have been produced: a computer-based version, which is presented on a laptop computer, and an easy-to-use paper based version which are being compared with a standard poster size foam-core version in a randomized trial. Important outcomes will include patient comprehension and acceptability. Currently 212 patients are entered into the study, with a target of 300 by October 2005. Newer versions of the Decision Board that are easier to use and present will lead to wider use in the community resulting in more knowledgeable and satisfied breast cancer patients.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA435057
Entities
People
- Timothy J. Whelan
Organizations
- McMaster University