Redesigning the patient experience for safer care

AMedNews.com | By Kevin B. O’Reilly  | amednews staff — Posted June 24, 2013

Implementing processes that improve how patients feel about the care they receive can have another upshot: better quality outcomes.  Amid growing financial pressure to improve scores on patient satisfaction surveys, some hospitals are looking beyond the potential ding associated with low grades. They are working to redraft their approach to care in an effort to ensure that patients not only have a positive experience but also get the right care at the right time while being spared from harm.

This involves a variety of approaches, from relatively ambitious moves such as creating a senior-level position charged with improving patient experience to something as seemingly simple as asking patients about their biggest hopes, fears or concerns about their care.  Read more