Exploring the wide range of terminology used to describe care that is patient-centred

Goodrich, J. (2009) Exploring the wide range of terminology used to describe care that is patient-centred.Nursing Times;105: 20, 14-17.

Background

During the planning phase of The King's Fund's The Point of Care programme, we undertook a literature review, starting with the term ‘patient-centred care’. We soon discovered the term not only had different meanings for different people but also that there were many related phrases with specific connotations in various professional contexts. When looking at the terminology that policymakers use, it seems that different terms - variations on ‘patient-centred care’ - have been favoured over the years.

Aim and method

We decided to carry out our own research to investigate what language staff working in hospitals preferred to use when describing their care of patients. We collected data using focus groups and paired and single in-depth interviews.

Results

It seemed that the language hospital workers preferred to use was different, and that staff (some groups more than others) did not like much of the language that academics and policymakers use.

Conclusion

It is important when working in a hospital context to use language that staff prefer.