What aspect of care does patient-centered care emphasize?

Patient-centered care emphasizes the involvement of the patient in decision-making, which is integral to delivering tailored and effective healthcare. This approach recognizes that patients are not just passive recipients of care but active participants in their health journey. By including patients in decisions about their treatment options, healthcare professionals can ensure that the care provided aligns with the patient's values, preferences, and goals.

This collaborative approach fosters a stronger therapeutic relationship between patients and providers, enhances patient satisfaction, and can improve health outcomes. It encourages communication, understanding, and respect for what the patient deems important, ultimately leading to more personalized and effective care strategies.

While standardization of treatment protocols, utilization of new medical technology, and compliance with regulatory standards are all important aspects of healthcare practice, they do not capture the essence of patient-centered care, which is focused on the individual patient's needs and involvement in their care.