JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The prevalence of multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) is increasing globally, leading to complex healthcare needs and polypharmacy. Shared decision-making (SDM) is important for supporting patient-centred care, yet barriers such as limited consultation time, discontinuity of care, and communication challenges prevent implementation. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to support SDM by providing personalised, data-driven recommendations, particularly for medication management in patients with MLTC.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the perspectives of patients with MLTC regarding SDM with their GPs and to explore patients’ views about the use of an AI tool to support SDM, in particular around prescribing decisions.

Methods:

This qualitative study explored the perspectives of 18 patients with MLTC on SDM and the use of an AI tool prototype during GP consultations. Semi-structured interviews used a simulated patient vignette and visual AI tool dashboard to facilitate discussion. Participants were recruited through GP practices via the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) and community-based organisations across the West Midlands.

Results:

Two overarching themes were identified: SDM in general practice and the AI tool for SDM. Sub-themes included communication and collaboration, system-level barriers, perceived usefulness and accessibility of the AI tool, efficiency and clinical autonomy, and perceptions of personalisation and data reliability.

Conclusions:

Overall, patients perceived AI as a promising way to enhance SDM, by improving communication and collaboration between patient and clinician. However, patients also had concerns about the accuracy and veracity of AI and should always be used with clinician oversight. These findings highlight opportunities and challenges for integrating AI into primary care consultations, particularly for patients with MLTC.