Embedding an illustrator in the process of co-producing resources to enhance communication and shared decision-making for patients prescribed high-risk medication

Objectives: To examine how embedding an illustrator in the process of co-producing resources to support shared decision-making (SDM) can enhance communication between patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs).

Methods: Three case studies were identified involving high-risk medications where the utility of effective visual communication resources is key to SDM due to the risk of information being misinterpreted leading to potential serious adverse effects. An iterative approach was adopted to the phases of co-production, where the Illustrator acted as a conduit between patients and specialist knowledge of the clinical team. The expertise of the Illustrator was harnessed to balance the use of visual and written information, working with the HCPs in co-creating the messaging.

Results: Case Study 1 relates to the urgent administration of hydrocortisone injection for adrenal crisis in adults and children. Case Study 2 relates to self-management of the need to adjust oral corticosteroid dosing during periods of adrenal insufficiency to prevent adrenal crisis. Case Study 3 focused on women with reproductive potential prescribed or considering sodium valproate for the management of epilepsy. The benefits of involving an Illustrator were evident across all case studies, invoking supportive, empowering and empathic visual communication throughout, leading to removal of some text by the clinical team.

Conclusions: Harnessing the expertise of Illustrators as part of a multi-disciplinary team with patients was seen as an enabler for authentic co-production to support an empathic approach to SDM in these three case studies. Further evaluation is needed to assess the impact of the use of visual communication resources of this nature in healthcare, and the impact on patient behaviours and clinical outcomes.