Person-Centered Care
Person-centered care and how you can take your health into your own hands
What is person-centered care? Or patient-centered care
Putting patients at the centre of care means seeing them as a whole person and treating them as a partner in their journey to better health.
Person-centered care (also known as patient-centered care) is the philosophy of giving power back to patients and putting them “at the center” of care. This helps them get better quick, promotes understanding of their illness, care and treatment. It helps prevent morbidity and mortality in the long run.
“Putting patients at the center” is a really vague goal. That’s why your family doctor, pharmacist, physiotherapist and everyone in between probably has different ideas about how to be person-centered. Here are three signs that the care you’re getting is person-centered:
They see you as a whole person: You are unique and complex. You have wants, needs, friends and families. That’s why your health-care provider wants to hear what you have to say and respects your right to make choices about your own body.
They treat you like a partner: Rather than tell you what to do, your health-care provider listens, teaches, and partners with you to build a care plan that aligns with your goals. Like any partnership, trust is key. You trust them, and they trust you.
They help you navigate your journey to better health: They listen to your concerns and validate your feelings. They also give helpful advice using words you understand and point you to other resources when you need them.
