How does shared decision-making benefit patients in healthcare?

Shared decision-making benefits patients primarily by involving them in their own care decisions, which has been shown to enhance both patient satisfaction and health outcomes. This approach respects the patient's preferences and values, allowing them to actively participate in their treatment plan rather than being passive recipients of care. When patients understand their options and are part of the decision-making process, they are more likely to feel empowered, leading to greater adherence to treatment and overall better health management. Furthermore, such involvement fosters a strong therapeutic relationship between patients and healthcare providers, which contributes to improved communication and trust.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of shared decision-making. Quicker admission processes, for instance, relate more to operational efficiency rather than patient involvement in their care. Decreasing the amount of information patients need to know undermines the foundational objective of empowering patients, as informed decision-making requires sufficient knowledge. Lastly, simplifying insurance claims processes is more about administrative efficiency than patient engagement in healthcare decisions. Thus, option B accurately highlights the essence and advantages of shared decision-making in enhancing patient-centered care.