Shared decision-making supported by outcome information regarding surveillance after curative treatment for breast cancer: Results of the SHOUT-BC study

Background: Integrating outcome information into the process of shared decision-making (SDM) about post-treatment surveillance can enhance its effectiveness. The Breast Cancer Surveillance Decision Aid (BCS-PtDA) integrates risk estimations of patients’ risks for recurrences as well as outcome information on fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). The SHOUT-BC study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of the BCS-PtDA. Patients’ satisfaction with the BCS-PtDA was also evaluated. Methods: As described in a previously published protocol paper, the study employed a Prospective multiple interrupted time series (ITS) design in which the BCS-PtDA was implemented stepwise into the care pathways of eight Dutch hospitals. Results: A total of 507 participants completed a questionnaire after their first surveillance consultation which usually takes place approximately one year after surgery. ITS analysis per hospital and subsequent meta-analysis over hospital effects indicated a significant increase in patient-reported SDM from pre- to post-implementation (overall estimated effect: 27.14, 95 % CI: 22.71 to 31.87, p < .0001). Moreover, post-implementation participants (n = 225) reported a more active role in decision-making, decreased decisional conflict, and increased knowledge on the aim and methods of surveillance. Furthermore, a decrease in FCR was seen post-implementation. The self-reported intensity of surveillance schedules decreased slightly and the BCS-PtDA received highly positive evaluations. Discussion: The implementation of the BCS-PtDA, which integrates outcome information, led to increased patient-reported SDM and an improved quality of decision-making. The BCS-PtDA was evaluated highly positively by participants. Further research should address optimisation of the implementation.