What are patient decision aids (PDAs) and what does the evidence show?

Patient decision aids are evidence-based tools designed to help patients understand treatment options and clarify personal preferences. Digital formats include interactive web-based risk calculators, video-based aids in patient portals, mobile apps integrating EHR data, and chatbot-guided preference-elicitation. A 2024 Cochrane review of 209 RCTs confirmed that PDAs improve knowledge, reduce decisional conflict, and increase the proportion of patients choosing conservative options where appropriate.