What is the first step in AHRQ's "SHARE" approach to vaccines?

The first step in AHRQ's "SHARE" approach is to seek your patient's participation in a discussion. This initial step is crucial because it establishes an open line of communication between the healthcare provider and the patient. By engaging the patient in a discussion, the provider creates a collaborative environment where the patient feels comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and questions regarding vaccinations. This foundation encourages an active partnership, allowing the healthcare provider to better understand the patient's specific needs and preferences that may influence their decision about vaccination.

Subsequent actions, such as providing information about the vaccine, assessing values and preferences, and determining readiness to make a decision, build upon this participatory foundation, ensuring that the patient's voice is central to the decision-making process.