Table 1 Steps of the shared decision making process as reported by patients in the Shared Decision Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q).

Step 1: Disclosure that a decision needs to be made

My doctor told me that a treatment decision is necessary.

83.3

Step 2: Formulation of equality of partners

My doctor asked me if I want to participate in decision making.

91.7

Step 3: Equipoise statement

Due to my medical condition, a treatment decision based on the physicians' recommendation is already clear.

78.6

Step 4: Informing on the options' benefits and risks

My doctor has informed me about a variety of alternatives.

85.9

The possibility to choose no treatment was also discussed.

72.9

Step 5: Investigation of patient's understanding and expectations

I have mentioned other possibilities that my doctor has not referred to.

19.8

My doctor has asked me what I think about different treatment options.

77.6

Step 6: Identification of preferences (both)

I have communicated to my doctor which decision I prefer.

74.5

My doctor has told me which decision he prefers.

90.6

Step 7: Negotiation

In the selection of a treatment method, my thoughts were taken into account just as much as the considerations of my doctor.

97.4

My doctor and I thoroughly considered the different treatment options.

93.2

Step 8: Shared decision making

My doctor enabled me to actively participate in decision making about treatment.

88.5

My doctor and I selected a treatment together.

88.5

Step 9: Arrangement of follow-up

My doctor and I reached an agreement as to how we will proceed.

92.2