**7. Conclusion**

SDM enables the voice of the patient to be heard and considered that his views are significant even at various different stages of the condition. Through this, the patient becomes more autonomous with an active role in his management. By participating in this two-way relationship, the healthcare professionals may interact better with the patient in different situations, with different levels of involvement. By recognizing the importance of patient's involvement process, the healthcare professional confirms that the patient is an important role-player in the process, ie that he is autonomous and equal, transferring the respect and dignity necessary for the balance between power and responsibility. When a healthcare professional encourages their patient's involvement and recognizes the importance of the patient's involvement process, then they are more likely to engage them positively in their own care. Creating a culture of trust is essential to enable the therapeutic environment as a whole to balance the power and responsibility for creating safe care. SDM is considered both, as a philosophy and a process that leads to better-quality care, ensuring that patients receive the 'care they need and no less, and the care they want and no more'. It is believed that many clinicians are already informally engaging patients in SDM without formally recognizing the name or details of the process.

However, more research and evidence are required to ensure that SDM is being routinely used in either primary care or hospital consultations, despite the fact that healthcare professionals believe they are engaging patients in their treatment decisions. Research suggests that SDM does influence the way patients consider treatment decisions and may have a positive impact on outcomes, as it improves compliance and adherence. It is imperative to involve patients as equal partners in healthcare, as part of healthcare professionals' legal and ethical obligation.

### **Acknowledgements**

We would like to help Mr. Sozomenos Hadjivassiliou for his contribution and editing in this work.

*Healthcare Access*
