Getting it right: why bother with patient-centred care?
Patient-centred care is about sharing the management of an illness between patient and doctor; it is not new but is increasingly evidence-based, especially for chronic problems such as diabetes, asthma and arthritis. Systematic reviews show that patient-centred care results in increased adherence to management protocols, reduced morbidity and improved quality of life for patients. Key features of the doctor-patient interaction are shared goal setting, written management plans and regular follow-up. Supportive community-based services and programs, combined with healthcare system commitment, are also required to make this approach effective in improving population health.
Bauman
Adrian E
AE
University of New South Wales, Sydney. a.bauman@unsw.edu.au
Fardy
H John
HJ
Harris
Peter G
PG
D000293:Adolescent; D001249:Asthma / Q000628:therapy; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001315:Australia; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000628:therapy*; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000628:therapy; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010358:Patient Participation; D018802:Patient-Centered Care; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations