Strategies to Ensure a Person Centered Approach

Understanding Person-Centered Approach

Person-centered approach refers to the method of care that prioritises the individual’s needs, interests, and choices over a standardised or traditional approach.
It recognises the importance of the service user’s autonomy, dignity, rights and values.
Understanding and implementing the person-centered approach is fundamental to establishing positive relationships in health and social care settings.

Key Principles of Person-Centered Care

Person-centered care should be based on individuality, taking into account each person’s unique needs, preferences and life circumstances.
Holistic approach is a central principle which considers the mental, physical, spiritual and social needs of the individual.
Involving the service user in the decision making process, respecting their autonomy and encouraging partnership and collaboration between the care provider and care receiver is integral.
Creating an environment where the individual feels valued and respected promotes empathy and compassion.
The approach stresses on respect for the individual’s rights, including confidentiality, privacy, and informed consent.

Strategies to Implement Person-Centered Care

Comprehensive Assessment: Conduct thorough assessments to identify the individual’s strengths, weaknesses, needs and goals. Utilise a variety of assessment tools, and ensure to involve the service user during this process.
Care Planning: Develop an integrated and personalised service plan involving the service user. Regularly review and update the care plan to reflect changing needs or preferences.
Diverse Team Approach: Coordinate with other professionals or agencies to provide wholesome care and support for the individual. The diverse team might include doctors, nurses, therapists, family members, and social workers.
Promote Active Participation: Encourage and support the service user in active participation in the care process. This can involve making decisions, managing their own care and expressing views and concerns.
Cultural Competency: Understand and respect the individual’s cultural background, beliefs and traditions. Cultivate cultural competence in service delivery to ensure all practices are culturally sensitive.
Education and Training for Providers: Regularly updated education and training for healthcare providers can ensure understanding and implementation of person-centered practices.

Effectiveness of Person-Centered Approach

The person-centered approach is considered effective as it focuses on holistic wellbeing, rather than just physical health.
It enhances self-efficacy by empowering individuals to take control of their own healthcare.
The approach fosters trust and mutual respect between the healthcare provider and the person receiving services.
It promotes satisfaction, confidence, and a positive mental state in individuals, leading to improved health outcomes.

Challenges and Limitations

Implementing a person-centered approach may require extra time and resources as coolpared to standard care.
There could be issues of incompatibility between the individual’s choice and the prescribed medical treatment.
The approach would require healthcare providers to continuously adapt and learn, which could be challenging.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges, the benefits of a person-centered approach far outweigh the drawbacks. It paves the way for better health outcomes, improves service user satisfaction, and promotes trust, respect and positive relationships in health and social care settings.