In a real-life situation, person-centered care means:

1. Respect for Autonomy: The healthcare team respects and supports the individual’s right to make decisions about their own care. They involve the person in discussions and decisions related to their treatment options, care plans, and daily routines. The person’s choices and preferences are honored to the greatest extent possible, allowing them to actively participate in their own healthcare journey.
2. Individualized Care Planning: The care plan is developed collaboratively, considering the person’s unique needs, goals, and circumstances. The healthcare team works closely with the person and their family members to identify their specific healthcare requirements, preferences, and priorities. The plan considers not only the person’s physical health but also their emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
3. Communication and Shared Decision-Making: Open and honest communication is vital in person-centered care. Healthcare providers actively listen to the person’s concerns, questions, and feedback, creating a safe and supportive environment for dialogue. They provide clear information about the person’s condition, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits. Together, the person and their healthcare team engage in shared decision-making, collaboratively determining the most appropriate course of action.
4. Emotional and Psychosocial Support: Person-centered care recognizes the importance of addressing the person’s emotional and psychosocial needs alongside their physical health. Healthcare providers offer empathy, compassion, and emotional support, acknowledging the person’s feelings, fears, and anxieties. They consider the person’s social connections, cultural background, and personal beliefs, ensuring that care is sensitive to their individual context.
5. Continuity and Coordination: Person-centered care focuses on delivering coordinated and seamless care across different healthcare settings and providers. There is a strong emphasis on effective communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals, ensuring that the person’s care is well-integrated and consistent. The person is empowered with the necessary information and resources to navigate their healthcare journey effectively.

By embracing person-centered care, healthcare providers strive to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and shared decision-making. This approach acknowledges the person as an active participant in their own care, promoting their autonomy, dignity, and overall well-being.