Video Aid Boosts Advance Care Planning in Kidney Patients

A new clinical trial shows video-based tools help older patients with advanced chronic kidney disease finalize treatment plans.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Alzheimer’s

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring two balanced ceramic forms, representing the alignment of medical care and personal patient values. — A clinical trial published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that video decision tools significantly increase advance care planning among kidney patients. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you support the use of video decision aids for your own healthcare treatment planning?

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals that patients viewing a video decision aid are more likely to complete advance care planning documentation. After 12 months, intervention participants showed significantly higher rates of documented treatment preferences compared to the control group.

Why it matters

This intervention aims to reduce uncertainty among patients with complex kidney health needs by facilitating clearer communication about their goals and treatment options. Increased documentation helps align future medical care with the specific values and preferences expressed by the patient.

In a 12-clinic trial of 453 participants, the intervention group saw 46.1% documented discussion of treatment options, compared to 31.6% for controls. Additionally, post-viewing indecision dropped to 13.2% for the intervention group versus 41.3% for controls.

The details

Participants in the intervention group engaged with a certified video decision aid and created a video declaration detailing their values and treatment preferences for their clinicians. The study specifically tracked these outcomes across 12 ambulatory clinics to evaluate if education increases advance care planning.

October 21 to 25, 2026: Kidney Week annual meeting took place in Denver.
October 22, 2026: The study was published online in JAMA Internal Medicine.
12 months: The timeframe used for measuring ACP documentation and treatment preferences.

Health Landscape

This study reinforces the Patient Self-Determination Act by providing a practical mechanism to increase the prevalence of advance care planning documentation. It marks a shift toward using interactive digital tools to help patients navigate complex medical decisions during chronic illness.

Older adults facing advanced kidney disease may find that video-based decision aids simplify the process of articulating personal treatment goals to their doctors. This method can reduce the stress of decision-making by clarifying options such as conservative kidney management early on.

The takeaway

Using visual decision aids can significantly improve the clarity of patient preferences regarding complex medical treatments. Patients should discuss available educational tools with their healthcare providers to ensure their long-term care plans accurately reflect their personal values.