Patient Experience Journal (Nov 2015)
The critical role of family in patient experience
Abstract
In this commentary Brian Boyle raises a simple, yet critical point about the value of family in the care experience. He offers, “When you are focusing on the goals for the patient's recovery, the doctors work with the nurses, specialists, and patient’s family to decide on the appropriate care plan for the patient on both a short- and long-term basis. It is vital that this multi-disciplinary approach occurs during the formation of the care plan and is frequently updated as time goes on. The loved ones of a patient may not have a medical license or healthcare background, but their voice and presence matters in the hospital room.” This reflection is grounded in the author’s personal journey from tragedy to recovery and offers some thoughtful insights not only into the value of family in the patient experience overall, but also how to be intentional in our efforts to engage the family members of those being cared for in healthcare today.
