What is one primary component of patient-centered care in quality improvement?

Patient-centered care emphasizes the importance of placing patients at the forefront of their healthcare experiences. One primary component is encouraging patient engagement and involvement. This approach recognizes patients as active participants in their care rather than passive recipients. By engaging patients, healthcare providers can ensure that the care delivered aligns with patients' needs, preferences, and values, ultimately enhancing satisfaction and improving outcomes.

Patient engagement can take various forms, such as involving patients in decision-making about their treatment plans, encouraging them to express their preferences and concerns, and facilitating open communication between patients and healthcare providers. This collaboration helps establish trust and fosters a therapeutic relationship, which is essential for effective healthcare delivery and quality improvement.

Other options, such as focusing solely on healthcare provider needs, prioritizing administrative efficiency, or minimizing communication between providers, do not align with the patient-centered care model. These approaches may overlook the importance of addressing patient perspectives and experiences, which are crucial in ensuring high-quality, responsive, and effective care.