What is a fundamental goal of patient-centered care?

A fundamental goal of patient-centered care is to respect and respond to individual patient needs and preferences. This approach places the patient at the center of the healthcare process, recognizing that each patient has unique values, beliefs, and experiences that should inform their care. By prioritizing the patient's perspective, healthcare providers can create a more tailored and effective treatment plan, ultimately leading to better patient satisfaction and outcomes.

This approach fosters a collaborative relationship between patients and providers, encouraging open communication and shared decision-making. When healthcare services are aligned with what is important to the patient, it enhances their engagement and compliance, leading to improved health outcomes.

While reducing healthcare costs, increasing market share, and maximizing staff efficiency are important considerations in healthcare management, they do not capture the essence of patient-centered care. These factors may improve operational efficiency or financial performance but do not inherently prioritize the individual needs and preferences of patients, which is the cornerstone of providing high-quality healthcare.