Understanding Patient Preferences When Deciding on a Voluntary Musculoskeletal Test

Confirmation of Values and Preferences When Considering a Musculoskeletal Diagnostic Test: A Scenario-Based Study

The goal of this clinical trial is to understand how people make decisions about imaging tests for common musculoskeletal problems (like arthritis, tendon problems, or nerve compression). The study involves adult patients attending a musculoskeletal specialty clinic.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

1. Does having a structured conversation about the pros and cons of a test affect how much a person wants to have that test?
2. Does that conversation help people feel more confident and less conflicted about their decision?

Researchers will compare patients who have a values-based discussion with a researcher to those who receive brief written information about the test, to see if these approaches affect how people feel about having the test.

Participants will:

• Read a brief scenario about a proposed diagnostic imaging test (like an X-ray, MRI, CT, or ultrasound).
• Either take part in a short structured conversation or read brief information about the test.
• Answer a short survey about their thoughts on the test.

This study does not involve actual medical testing or affect your clinical care. It is for research purposes only.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults (18+ years)
• English literacy
• Seeking musculoskeletal specialty care
• Diagnosis of non-traumatic musculoskeletal condition (including but not limited to: carpal tunnel syndrome, lateral epicondylitis, osteoarthritis, trigger digit, Dupuytren's, De Quervain, or rotator cuff tendinopathy)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive or physical impairment or severe psychiatric illness that would interfere with participation in the scenario-based discussion or completion of the survey instruments