Patient-Centered Care
What is patient-centered care?
With patient-centered care, the patient’s healthcare needs are the driving force behind the care they receive. This form of care takes into consideration the patient’s needs, preferences, and values when making all clinical decisions.
Under patient-centered care, the treatment plan is comprehensive and individualized, considering both mental health and social needs in addition to traditional medical treatment.
Patient-centered care focuses on allowing patients to contribute to the decision-making process. Family members are also encouraged to join in with the care setting, and information is shared in a timely manner so that patients and their families can make informed decisions about their care.
What are the benefits of patient-centered care?
The ultimate goal of patient-centered care is to improve health outcomes for patients in all aspects of their lives. Not only do patients benefit, but healthcare providers also benefit from higher staff productivity and morale, better patient satisfaction scores, and reductions in the overall cost of care.
Patient-centered care also encourages patients to become more involved in their care, which correlates to better outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and better long-term outcomes.