Patient-centered care is typically defined as the practice of caring for patients in a way that is valuable to the patient. Instead of relying on physician-dependent tools or resources, physicians involve and inform their patients in their car. The Institute of Medicine defines patient-centered care as: “Providing care that is respectful of, and responsive to, individual patient preferences, needs and values, and ensuring that patient values guide all clinical decisions.

Not only does this significantly improve the quality of healthcare being received, but reduces cost at the same time. This is a driving force behind the shift to this care model. The satisfaction of patients is increasing and patients’ clinical outcomes are improving. Meanwhile, the use of diagnostic testings, hospitalizations, and prescription medication has decreased. This model is not only beneficial for primary care physicians, but can be applied to all specialties.

Benefits of Patient-Centered Care

First and foremost, the goal of patient-centered care is to improve patient health outcomes. When patients are satisfied and their overall health improves, the providers and healthcare systems benefit as well.

• Improved satisfaction scores among patients and their families
• Increased online reputation of providers
• Better patient-physician relationships
• Ability to allocate resources and funds
• Increased financial margins and reduced expenses

Benefit for Physicians and Providers

Physicians who are not practicing a patient-centered approach tend to order expensive tests and referrals instead of growing a personal connection with their patients. Several studies have documented higher rates of hospitalizations, referrals, and prescriptions among doctors who lack high levels of communication with their patients.

Physicians who create relationships with patients and their families typically do not require expensive medical devices or high-cost procedures. Overall, it reduces their medical expenses, allowing for those funds to be allocated elsewhere within their practice. Instead, when working with patients directly to create a personalized care plan, the patients are more compliant and have more positive outcomes.

A Cultural Shift

A patient-centered approach includes the family of each patient in care and health plans. Traditionally, families followed orders from doctors when caring for a family member. With this kind of approach, families become part of a team. Family members know how to best care for their loved ones and can help providers learn more about the patient.

Providers and healthcare clinics are starting to implement satisfaction surveys to patients as well as family members. This information helps to continuously improve the way physicians interact with patients and how practices are managed and maintained.

In this patient-centered care model, the relationship between patients and their physician is necessary. This includes open communication and empathy. Patients want a physician who listens and cares, which ultimately leads to a more satisfied and successful outcome. This is also proven to lower symptom burden and lower the rate of referrals. Patients perceive a physician’s level of empathy with their expertise and trust. In general, this type of care is a win-win for patients and physicians.