Person-centered health care focuses on patient as individual
The James' new primary care doctor explained Lawrence's prostate cancer diagnosis and every procedure that followed until they understood each of them.
The Comprehensive Care Program, funded with a $6.1 million federal grant, is an example of a new model of care aimed at changing the culture of America's health care system to one where doctors treat people rather than symptoms.
Lynda Crandall, executive director of Pioneer Network, a nonprofit promoting a culture change in nursing homes, said some nursing facilities have adopted person-centered care measures on paper, but in reality, the concept is not being put in place.
The renewed push for person-centered care comes as the U.S. population continues to age and the health care system is in a transition of sorts.
The association, which represents nursing facilities and other health care providers, points to proposed regulations that require additional training for staff on patient-centered care and on preventing hospitalizations and infections.
EDITOR'S NOTE — Alejandra Cancino is studying health care and long-term care issues as part of a 10-month fellowship at the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, which joins NORC's independent research and AP journalism.