What is patient- and family-centered care?

Patient- and family-centered care is a partnership in decision-making between clinicians and patients and families. This partnership recognizes that the perspectives and information provided by patients and families are important and valuable to the delivery of care.

Why is it important?

Patient- and family-centered care can lead to better health outcomes; improved patient, family, and provider satisfaction; and more effective allocation of resources.

How does EMSC work to enhance patient- and family-centered care?

The EMSC Program creates resources and opportunities to help clinicians provide patient- and family-centered care. The primary way EMSC does this is through the work of the EMSC Family Advisory Network, a national network of volunteers who use a combination of personal and/or professional experience to help improve emergency care for children.