Transform Care Delivery: Strategies for a Successful Patient- and Family-Centered Approach

Patient- and family-centered care (PFCC) is a holistic approach that recognizes the essential role of patients and their families in healthcare decision-making and delivery. While PFCC has long been associated with pediatrics, its principles are increasingly being applied across healthcare settings. In this blog post, we will summarize the six strategies for successful PFCC outlined in the article "Patient- and Family-Centered Care: It's Not Just Pediatrics Anymore" published in the Journal of Ethics by the American Medical Association.

Strategy #1: Recognize the Importance of Partnerships
The cornerstone of PFCC is building partnerships between healthcare providers, patients, and their families. Recognize that patients and their families possess unique knowledge about their health conditions, preferences, and values. Encourage their active involvement in all aspects of care, including shared decision-making, care planning, and evaluating treatment options.

Strategy #2: Ensure Respect and Dignity
Treat patients and their families with respect, dignity, and compassion. Create a welcoming and inclusive environment that values their diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultural practices. Actively listen to their concerns, address their questions, and provide information in a clear and understandable manner.

Strategy #3: Clear Communication & Education
Transparent and timely communication is crucial for effective PFCC. Share pertinent education with patients and their families, ensuring they understand their diagnosis, treatment options, potential risks, and benefits. Use plain language and visual aids to enhance comprehension. Encourage patients and families to ask questions and actively participate in discussions.

Strategy #4: Collaboration and Shared Decision-Making
Engage patients and their families as equal partners in making healthcare decisions. Take the time to understand their cultural influences, social factors, and health literacy. Then, provide them with the appropriate information, discuss treatment alternatives, and support them in expressing their preferences and values. Collaborate to develop a care plan that aligns with their goals and respects their autonomy.

Strategy #5: Continuity and Coordination of Care
Promote continuity and coordination of care by facilitating seamless transitions between different healthcare settings. Enhance communication among healthcare providers, ensuring the exchange of relevant information and avoiding fragmented care. Educate patients and families on what to expect during care transitions, providing them with the necessary resources and support.

Strategy #6: Emotional and Psychosocial Support
Recognize the emotional and psychosocial needs of patients and their families. Create an environment that fosters emotional support, empathy, and understanding. Offer counseling services, support groups, or access to mental health professionals to address their emotional well-being throughout the care journey.

In all, patient- and family-centered care goes beyond the realm of pediatrics and is increasingly recognized as a fundamental approach across healthcare settings. By implementing the strategies discussed above, healthcare providers can create a collaborative and compassionate environment that respects patients' and families' autonomy, values their unique perspectives, and enhances the overall healthcare experience. By embracing PFCC, we can truly transform the delivery of care and improve patient outcomes.

References:

• AMA J Ethics. 2016;18(1):40-44. doi: 10.1001/journalofethics.2016.18.1.medu3-1601.