How Patient Stories Can Improve Intensive Care
theconversation.comOpportunities to share stories about care, in settings away from the hospital, serve to bridge the gap between the experiences of patients and those of doctors and nurses. The 21st century re-orientation of health care towards patient-centered care — respectful and responsive to individual patient preferences, needs and values — involves listening to, and integrating, patient perspectives. As researchers in intensive care, we have found that the sharing of stories brings humanity into the daily business of providing care. It also has the potential to transform health-care policy and delivery.