Current Challenges When Using Numbers in Patient Decision Aids: Advanced Concepts

Background Decision aid developers have to convey complex task-specific numeric information in a way that minimizes bias and promotes understanding of the options available within particular decision. Whereas our companion paper summarizes fundamental issues, this article focuses on more complex, aspects presenting patient decision aids. Methods As part International Patient Aids Standards third evidence update, we gathered an expert panel 9 international experts who revised expanded topics covered 2013 review working groups 2 3 update evidence, based their expertise targeted searches literature. The full then reviewed provided additional revisions, reaching consensus final version. Results Five 10 addressed issues. We found strong for using independent event rates and/or incremental absolute risk differences effect size test screening outcomes. Simple visual formats can help reduce common judgment biases enhance comprehension but be misleading if not well designed. Graph literacy moderate effectiveness hence should considered tool design. There is less supporting inclusion personalized interactive estimates. Discussion More information. such as benefits harms options, better understood by alongside well-designed consider graph intended audience. research needed into when how use estimates because complexity accessibility may affect feasibility clinical practice.