Think about one of your most recent encounters with the health care system (for yourself, your child, an elderly parent, etc.). Evaluate your patient experience in all facets of quality and patient safety. What went well and what (specifically) could/should be changed? How should that change be accomplished?
Provide a summary of your experience and your recommendations for change based on peer-reviewed source facts in a 200-word supported analysis. Be sure to read the experiences that are posted before you make your initial post to avoid duplication of ideas. Remember to use in-text citations in your post, also providing a reference list.
Patient experience encompasses several aspects, including communication, access to care, involvement in decision-making, and overall satisfaction with the healthcare encounter. A study by Doyle et al. (2013) found that positive patient experiences are associated with better adherence to treatment plans, improved health outcomes, and increased patient satisfaction.
In terms of quality and patient safety, it is crucial to address issues such as medical errors, hospital-acquired infections, and adverse events. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of patient safety in healthcare settings to reduce harm and improve overall quality of care.
One aspect that could be improved is communication between healthcare providers and patients. Studies have shown that effective communication contributes to better patient outcomes and satisfaction. A systematic review by Street et al. (2013) highlighted the need for healthcare professionals to employ clear and empathetic communication techniques to engage patients in their care.
To achieve these changes, healthcare organizations should prioritize patient-centered care and invest in training programs that enhance communication skills for healthcare providers. Additionally, implementing patient engagement strategies, such as shared decision-making and patient education, can empower individuals to actively participate in their healthcare journey.
In conclusion, enhancing patient experience, quality, and patient safety in healthcare requires improvements in communication, access to care, and patient engagement. These changes can be accomplished through the implementation of training programs, guidelines, and policies that promote patient-centered care. By prioritizing patient satisfaction and safety, healthcare systems can work towards delivering higher-quality care and improving overall patient outcomes.
References:
- Doyle, C., Lennox, L., & Bell, D. (2013). A systematic review of evidence on the links between patient experience and clinical safety and effectiveness. BMJ Open, 3(1), e001570.
- Street, R. L., Makoul, G., Arora, N. K., & Epstein, R. M. (2009). How does communication heal? Pathways linking clinician–patient communication to health outcomes. Patient Education and Counseling, 74(3), 295-301.
- World Health Organization. (2021). Patient safety. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/activities/patient-safety