What does the term "patient-centered care" emphasize?

The term "patient-centered care" emphasizes the importance of respecting patient preferences, needs, and values in care decisions. This approach prioritizes the individual experiences and perspectives of patients, ensuring that their unique circumstances, desires, and choices are considered when planning and delivering healthcare services.

In patient-centered care, healthcare providers actively involve patients in decision-making processes, encouraging open communication and fostering a collaborative relationship. This not only helps to enhance patient satisfaction but also improves overall outcomes, as treatments are more likely to align with what patients believe is important for their health and well-being.

By focusing on the patient's perspective, healthcare providers can tailor their approaches, making care more relevant and meaningful to those they serve, which is a core principle of patient-centered care.