What is Patient and Family Centered Care?
Patient- and family-centered care is an approach to the planning, delivery and evaluation of healthcare that is grounded in partnerships among healthcare providers, patients and families. Our Patient and Family Advisory Council members redefine the relationships in healthcare by placing an emphasis on collaborating with people of all ages, at all levels of care and in all healthcare settings. Patients and families define their “family” and determine how they will participate in care and decision-making. The goal is to promote the health and well-being of individuals and families and to maintain their control.
We recognize that patients and families are essential allies for quality and safety — not only in direct care interactions, but also in quality improvement, safety initiatives, education of health professionals, research, facility design and policy development.
Our efforts lead to better health outcomes, an improved patient and family experience of care, better clinician and staff satisfaction and a wiser allocation of resources.
Core Concepts of Patient and Family Centered Care
- Treating parents, guardians and families with dignity and respect
- Sharing information so families have what they need to be involved in their child’s medical care
- Partnering with parents and guardians in the care of their children
- Valuing input from parents and guardians