Shared Decision-Making With Indigenous Peoples for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Shared Decision-Making With Indigenous Peoples for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
The Problem
Indigenous people with rheumatoid arthritis often face racism, mistrust and a lack of culturally sensitive care in the healthcare system. Medical appointments are short, and patients are often pressured to make quick treatment decisions, which can feel alienating.
The Research
In this study, we are collaborating with Indigenous communities to adapt treatment decision aids and introduce a “decision coach” role. The goal is to support patients in making informed, culturally appropriate choices at their own pace, enhancing their ability to engage in Shared Decision-Making with healthcare providers.
The Impact
By allowing Indigenous peoples to take control of their treatment decisions, we can promote trust and improve healthcare engagement. This approach has the potential for more culturally relevant and personalized care for Indigenous peoples with rheumatoid arthritis.
Research Study
Research Study
Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is complex, with multiple medication options available. How each patient approaches their choice can vary.
- If they prefer to delegate the choice to their healthcare provider;
- If they have a preference to choose the strategy that will give them the best benefit or one that minimizes the risk of side effects;
- Whether how the medication is taken, as either pills or injections, influences their decision.
Shared decision-making is a proven method to help patients and health professionals work together to determine healthcare decisions. Many strategies are used, including decision aids (visuals and written or web content that outline the possibilities) and decision coaching (where a peer helps talk through the choices and pros and cons of each). Shared decision-making has been proven to increase patient satisfaction with their treatment, allowing them to feel more in control and improve their relationships with their healthcare providers.
Shared decision-making for Indigenous people with rheumatoid arthritis involves the consideration of additional population-specific content and cultural factors, as well as information about health insurance coverage applicable to them. As Shared decision-making is focused on aligning patient knowledge and preferences for treatment, it may be an effective way to support arthritis care for Indigenous patients in harmony with their beliefs.
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Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Cheryl Barnabe
Senior Scientist, Rheumatology, MD, MSc, FRCPC
Dr. Cheryl Barnabe is a rheumatologist and member of the Otipemisiwak Metis Government (formerly the Metis Nation of Alberta). She is the Arthur JE Child Chair in Rheumatology Outcomes Research and a Canada Research Chair in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases. She is a Professor in the Departments of Medicine and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary. She is the Director of the McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health.
