Patient-physician communication and shared decision-making in interstitial lung disease care: A mixed-method study based on a patient community survey.

BACKGROUND: Shared decision-making (SDM) is a core component of patient-centered care; however, its implementation in routine practice remains inconsistent, leading to communication gaps. In interstitial lung disease (ILD), where treatment decisions are complex, effective physician-patient communication may influence patient satisfaction and engagement. This study aimed to identify factors associated with patient satisfaction and patient-perceived involvement in SDM in ILD care. METHODS: This mixed-method study included a web-based questionnaire and qualitative analysis using the Marketing Research Online Community methodology. Between October 26 and November 21, 2023, 65 patients with ILD from a patient community participated. Quantitative analyses identified factors associated with patient satisfaction and perceived involvement in SDM, while free-text responses and online discussions underwent thematic analysis. RESULTS: Higher patient satisfaction was associated with physician communication behaviors and patient engagement. Care by a patient-perceived ILD specialist (P = 0.03), preconsultation preparation (P = 0.04), and medication adherence (P = 0.03) were significant patient-related factors. Physician behaviors, including attentive listening (P = 0.0006), a friendly consultation atmosphere (P = 0.001), and openness to second opinions (P = 0.0004), were strongly associated with satisfaction. Perceived involvement in SDM was further associated with satisfaction with communication (P = 0.01), self-learning about ILD (P = 0.005), preconsultation preparation (P = 0.0007), and medication adherence (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: In this exploratory study, physician communication behaviors and patient engagement were associated with patient satisfaction and patient-perceived involvement in SDM. These findings may inform future studies.