How is "Patient-Centered Care" best defined?

Patient-Centered Care is defined as an approach that values patient input and needs, emphasizing the importance of involving patients in their own care. This definition highlights the shift from a purely provider-driven model of healthcare to one that recognizes patients as active participants in their treatment. By incorporating patients' preferences, needs, and values into the decision-making process, healthcare providers can tailor care to individual circumstances, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

This approach fosters a therapeutic relationship between patients and healthcare providers, enhancing communication and trust. It also ensures that care is more holistic, addressing not just the medical aspects but also the emotional, social, and cultural factors that affect a patient's experience and health journey.

In contrast, other approaches such as prioritizing hospital procedures, focusing on team preferences, or being driven by financial considerations do not adequately prioritize the patient's voice or needs in the care process, which is crucial for effective patient-centered care.