Current Shared Decision Making Initiatives and Research at UPMC

At UPMC, we have world class experts who keep their patients at the center of their care. Here are a few examples of the ways they use decision aids to empower their patients.

• There is federal mandate for patients to complete a shared decision making tool prior to ICD implantation. Patients complete the following tool: Heart Rhythm Problems – Should I get an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator?
• Dr. Anita Courcoulas partners with her patients who are considering bariatric surgery to ensure they feel capable to make an informed decision: Obesity – Should I Have Weight Loss Surgery?
• Our experts help patients navigate guidelines to decide when to begin having mammograms: Breast Cancer Screening – When Should I Start Having Mammograms?
• Dr. Jennifer Steiman has created a process to help her patients feel prepared to discuss their options and partner to find the best treatment. You can read about the process from her perspective and the perspective of a patient. Breast Cancer: Should I Have Breast-Conserving Surgery or a Mastectomy?