Experiences of the communication of uncertainty in general practice
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding experiences of the communication of uncertainty as a component of shared decision-making in general practice consultations: a qualitative interview study
IRAS ID
357676
Contact name
Amy Chinner-Evans
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Exeter
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
10.17605/OSF.IO/HWVZB, Open Science Framework Preregistration DOI
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Background: Uncertainty is inherent within the practice of medicine. This is particularly relevant within primary care due to an increasing number of people living with multiple long term conditions (MLTCs) where decisions can be complicated by complex health interactions and a lack of research. Expert opinion suggests that shared decision-making (SDM) is likely to be beneficial in situations of uncertainty and NICE guidance recommends a SDM approach for the management of MLTCs. However, despite the recommendation that the communication of uncertainty be included as part SDM, there is currently little agreement about best practice and wide variation in practice.
Aim: This research aims to understand the perceptions and experiences of people with MLTCs, and their General Practitioners (GPs), with regards to the communication of clinical uncertainty as part of healthcare decision-making within general practice consultations.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews will be undertaken with up to 10 participants in each group: GPs and people with MLTCs. A multiperspective Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach will be used to analyse the interviews to explore and understand participants’ experiences.
Expected outputs/outcomes: The main outcome of this study will be an increased understanding of both patient and practitioner perceptions of the communication of uncertainty as part of SDM within general practice consultations. This will contribute towards addressing the gap in research evidence regarding the perspectives of patients and practitioners relating to the communication of clinical uncertainty in healthcare more generally. As part of a wider PhD programme of work, these findings will also help to inform the development of an evidence-based educational intervention to support GPs with the communication of clinical uncertainty as a component of shared decision-making with people with MLTC’S.
REC name
London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/PR/0388
Date of REC Opinion
15 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion