What is 'patient-centered care' and what are its core elements?

• A. Care that respects patient preferences, needs, values; involves patients in decision-making, coordination, information sharing, physical comfort.
• B. Prescribing medications without discussion.
• C. Focusing solely on disease metrics.
• D. Minimizing patient input.

Answer: (A)

Patient-centered care is care organized around the person, not just the disease. It respects patient preferences, needs, and values and uses that information to guide decisions about care. The main elements include involving patients in decisions about their treatment, coordinating care across providers and settings so the experience is seamless, sharing information openly so patients understand options and can participate, and addressing physical comfort as a fundamental part of care. This approach emphasizes partnership, clear communication, and tailoring care to the individual. Choices that describe prescribing without discussion, focusing only on disease metrics, or minimizing patient input don’t reflect patient-centered care because they sideline the patient’s perspectives and autonomy.