Health literate-sensitive shared decision-making in maternity care: needs for support among maternity care professionals in the Netherlands

Abstract Background Shared decision-making (SDM) in maternity care is challenging when clients have insufficient health literacy (HL) skills. This study gained insight in how professionals apply HL-sensitive SDM in Dutch maternity care and their needs for support therein. Methods Maternity care professionals ( n = 30) completed a survey on SDM and the role of HL. Midwives ( n = 13) were observed during simulated conversations discussing pain relief options and interviewed afterwards. The client-actors were instructed to portrait specific inadequate HL skills. Observation items focused on adapt... Mehr ...