Shared Decision-Making: How We Make Care Decisions Together

If you've ever sat with a treatment decision and thought, “I don't know what the right choice is” — that's a completely normal feeling. There are often multiple paths forward, and figuring out which one fits your life can feel overwhelming. That's exactly why we do things differently at Zest.

We call it shared decision-making. It's not just a phrase — it's how we practice care. You bring your lived experience, your priorities, and your questions. Your Zest provider brings clinical expertise, research, and options. Together, you find the path that makes the most sense for your skin and your life.

What Is Shared Decision-Making?

• No one knows your body, your routine, or what matters to you, better than you do. When your Zest provider presents treatment options, the goal isn't to hand down a recommendation — it's to have a real conversation.
• That means talking about what's worked in the past (and what hasn't). It means asking what your goals are — whether that's clearer skin for a big life event, a more affordable option, fewer injections, or simply less worry. And it means making sure you understand the "why" behind any recommendation before you move forward.
• There are no wrong questions here. If something doesn't feel right or you want to explore other options, say so. That's how good care works.

Putting It Into Practice: Your Care Journey

To give you a better idea of how we make these decisions together, here is how we collaborate at each stage of your care:

1. The Clinical Evaluation

We regularly check whether your current care plan is still the right fit. As your skin changes, your care plan might change with it. We regularly check in to make sure your treatment is keeping up with your progress — whether that means adjusting your dose, exploring a new option that better fits your lifestyle, or finding a more affordable path to the same results.

2. Talking About Long-Term Goals

If your skin has been stable for a while, we may explore whether a gentler approach could help maintain your results. This is not a decision we make for you. We lay out the options, talk through the risks and benefits, and let you decide what feels right.

3. Ongoing Oversight

Your care doesn't pause between visits. With 24/7 clinical oversight, you can reach out any time something changes — a new symptom, a question about your medication, or just a moment of uncertainty. We adjust your plan as your skin evolves.

What This Means for You

Shared decision-making can sound like a big, clinical concept. But in practice, it just means you should feel:

• Informed — you understand your options and the reasoning behind them
• Heard — your concerns and preferences shape your care plan
• Supported — you’re never making a big decision by yourself

If you ever feel rushed, confused, or a decision doesn't sit right with you, that's worth voicing. We'd rather slow down and get it right than move fast and leave you uncertain.

Have questions about your care plan or a treatment decision? Reach out through your Zest portal — your care team is here to think it through with you.