What is the main focus of patient-centered care?

The main focus of patient-centered care is on the individual needs and preferences of patients. This approach emphasizes understanding patients as unique individuals with specific values, concerns, and expectations regarding their healthcare journey. By prioritizing patients' perspectives, healthcare providers can tailor their approaches to accommodate not only the medical requirements but also the emotional, cultural, and social factors that influence a patient's health and well-being.

In a patient-centered model, effective communication, shared decision-making, and building a therapeutic relationship between the patient and healthcare professionals are paramount. This fosters a collaborative environment where patients feel empowered to participate actively in their care, leading to better health outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.

By contrast, a focus on the uniformity of healthcare services, maximizing provider efficiency, or adhering strictly to standardized treatment protocols can overlook the unique circumstances of each patient. These models may prioritize operational efficiency or guideline adherence over individual care, which may not result in the best outcomes for all patients involved.