Patient–physician communication and shared decision-making in interstitial lung disease care: A mixed-method study based on a patient community survey

Background Shared decision-making (SDM) is a core component of patient-centered care; however, its implementation in routine practice remains inconsistent, leading to communication gaps. In interstitial lung disease (ILD), where treatment decisions are complex, effective physician–patient communication may influence patient satisfaction and engagement. This study aimed to identify factors associated with patient satisfaction and patient-perceived involvement in SDM in ILD care. Methods This mixed-method study included a web-based questionnaire and qualitative analysis using the Marketing Research Online Community methodology. Between October 26 and November 21, 2023, 65 patients with ILD from a patient community participated. Quantitative analyses identified factors associated with patient satisfaction and perceived involvement in SDM, while free-text responses and online discussions underwent thematic analysis. Results Higher patient satisfaction was associated with physician communication behaviors and patient engagement. Care by a patient-perceived ILD specialist (P = 0.03), preconsultation preparation (P = 0.04), and medication adherence (P = 0.03) were significant patient-related factors. Physician behaviors, including attentive listening (P = 0.0006), a friendly consultation atmosphere (P = 0.001), and openness to second opinions (P = 0.0004), were strongly associated with satisfaction. Perceived involvement in SDM was further associated with satisfaction with communication (P = 0.01), self-learning about ILD (P = 0.005), preconsultation preparation (P = 0.0007), and medication adherence (P = 0.02). Conclusions In this exploratory study, physician communication behaviors and patient engagement were associated with patient satisfaction and patient-perceived involvement in SDM. These findings may inform future studies.