Towards Patient-Centered Care in Internal Medicine: A PLS-SEM Model of Shared Decision-Making and Patient Satisfaction Among Patients with Chronic Conditions

Background/Objectives: Patient-centered care has become an important component of chronic disease management. Patients are increasingly involved in complex decisions about their treatment, while effective doctor-patient communication, access to clear medical information, and active involvement in decision-making can contribute to a better care experience. This study aimed to identify the main factors associated with patient participation in medical decision-making and to examine the relationship between participation and patient satisfaction.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 176 patients with chronic conditions. Data were collected using an online questionnaire. The proposed relationships between doctor-patient communication, trust in the doctor, ability to understand medical information, patient involvement in their own care, quality of information provided, participation in medical decision-making, and patient satisfaction were examined using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).