Does shared decision-making make medical consultations longer?

What question did the researchers ask?

The review investigated whether stronger shared decision-making changes consultation length. It included 28 randomised trials, eight quasi-experimental studies and 27 cross-sectional studies.

What did they actually find?

Most comparisons found no difference in consultation time. Some clinician-only, primary-care or group interventions added around one-and-a-half to four minutes, while theory-based and multi-level approaches appeared less likely to lengthen visits.

What should you keep in mind?

The studies and interventions were too different for one overall pooled estimate. The review supports the process of informed choice; it does not validate any particular cosmetic treatment or substitute for adequate clinical time.

What does this mean for a Highfield consultation?

This supports an informed consultation process rather than any particular cosmetic treatment. We consider that finding alongside independent guidance, your medical history, examination and priorities. It can support a better-informed decision, but it cannot promise a personal result or decide whether treatment is suitable.