The eight principles of patient-centred care
This webpage summarises findings from work by researchers from Harvard Medical Shool on behalf of Picker Institute and The Commonewalth Fund. It draws on a literature review and wide range of focus groups to identify 8 Principles of Patient Centred Care that are needed to meet the Institute of Medicine's definition of patient-centred care.
The Institute of Medicine defines patient-centred 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 deicisions.'
The eight principles, which are set out in more detail on the webpage are:
- Respect for patients' values, preferences and expressed needs
- Coordination and integration of care
- Information and education
- physical comfort
- Emotional support and alleviation of fear and ansiety
- Involvement of family and friends
- Continuity and transition
- Access to care