Table 1 IPFCC’s* Definition of Patient- and Family-Centered Care: History & Four Concepts [4, 17]

History/Background

The core concepts of patient- and family-centered care were initially developed in the 1980s by patients, families, clinicians, researchers, and health care leaders. They were grounded in the conceptual frameworks of the consumer and family support movements that gained momentum in health care, social services, and education in the 1960s.

Core Concept

Explanation

Dignity and Respect

Health care practitioners listen to and honor patient and family perspectives and choices. Patient and family knowledge, values, beliefs and cultural backgrounds are incorporated into the planning and delivery of care.

Information Sharing

Health care practitioners communicate and share complete and unbiased information with patients and families in ways that are affirming and useful. Patients and families receive timely, complete, and accurate information in order to effectively participate in care and decision-making.

Participation

Patients and families are encouraged and supported in participating in care and decision-making at the level they choose.

Collaboration

Patients, families, health care practitioners, and hospital leaders collaborate in policy and program development, implementation, and evaluation; in health care facility design; and in professional education, as well as in the delivery of care.