A field-test of Not Deciding Alone to support Inuit with health decision making: co-production of a mixed methods study guided by aajiiqatigiingniq

Int J Circumpolar Health. 2025 Dec;84(1):2513726. doi: 10.1080/22423982.2025.2513726. Epub 2025 Jun 5.

Abstract

Shared decision-making supports person-centred care. Our team of Inuit-led and/or -focused organizations and researchers field-tested a strategy called Not Deciding Alone to support health decision-making. Guided by aajiiqatigiingniq, a principle of collective decision-making and consensus-building, we co-produced a mixed-methods study to: (1) train Qikiqtani region community health representatives (CHRs) with a workshop, (2) develop a radio show and survey, and (3) assess the radio show with Inuit community members in the health system. We evaluated participant experiences using forms, case studies, and an online survey. The workshop was delivered to 13 CHRs; seven (54%) provided evaluation data. All (100%) reported positive experiences with the content, activities, and facilitation. One (14%) said the workshop was too short; four (57%) agreed there was enough discussion time. Six (86%) reported new learning. Three radio show events were held with 33 survey respondents, the majority women (n = 25, 76%). Most found the show informative (n = 29, 88%) and helpful for future decision-making (n = 27, 82%), and said it would improve their confidence (n = 27, 82%). Not Deciding Alone was found to be an acceptable, useful, and relevant strategy for supporting health decision-making among Inuit community members.

Keywords: Inuit; aajiiqatigiingniq; collaborative research; decision coaching; integrated knowledge translation; mixed methods; shared decision making.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Arctic Regions
  • Decision Making*
  • Decision Making, Shared*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inuit* / psychology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Surveys and Questionnaires