A Web-Based Surrogate Decision-Making Tool for ICU Families to Plan and Communicate Patient Care Goals
Accessible through any standard web browser on smartphones, tablets, or desktop computers, the tool guides family decision-makers through a structured, interactive workflow that captures their questions for clinicians, reflections on the patient’s values. User inputs are securely stored and automatically compiled into a concise, one-page summary formatted for on-screen review, electronic sharing with the clinical team, or printing for in-person discussions. By leveraging common web technologies and secure server storage, the system can be deployed at low cost across multiple ICU settings without requiring specialized clinician training or proprietary hardware.
Description
This technology stands out as a highly scalable, low-cost solution that family members can access both inside and outside the ICU, on any device with a browser. Unlike traditional programs that demand trained facilitators and bespoke hardware, its web-based nature allows widespread adoption with minimal setup. Continuous availability throughout the patient’s ICU stay ensures families are better prepared for goals-of-care conversations, while the automatically generated summary fosters clearer, more efficient communication with clinicians. Early randomized trials have demonstrated its feasibility, affordability, and positive impact on shared decision-making, underpinning its differentiated approach to supporting surrogate decision-makers.Applications
- ICU family decision support- End-of-life care planning
- Telehealth shared decision-making
- EHR-integrated summary generation
- Patient values documentation
Advantages
- Enhances the quality of communication and shared decision-making between families and clinicians- Accessible on any web-enabled device, enabling low-cost, scalable deployment without specialized hardware or training
- Guides surrogates through a structured workflow to capture questions, values, and treatment preferences
Provides emotional support and reduces psychological distress for family decision-makers
- Generates a concise, one-page summary to streamline discussions and information sharing
- Helps align care decisions with patient values, potentially reducing burdensome and costly treatments