Choice processes and satisfaction with care according to parents of children and young adults with intellectual disability in The Netherlands

Abstract

Background: Despite the expressed desire for access to information on care providers and increased availability of this information, the use of available information falls short of expectations. We lack research on the decision-making processes and on how these processes are influenced. A study that employs "real-life" decisions is necessary.

Methods: Our experimental study design established the effects of providing decision-support information only (services/quality indicators) and providing a combination of information and personal decision-making support (counselling/peer meetings) on the choice process and satisfaction with care.

Results: These forms of support affected the choice process, but did not affect satisfaction with care. Decision-support information combined with personal decision-making support led to less frequent switching of care providers and to more satisfaction with choice information. Parents make limited use of online decision-support information, but did use decision counselling.

Conclusion: This population is better supported with an intensified personal approach rather than through the current generic approach using websites.