Person-Centred Care: State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives

Many countries prioritise the implementation of person-centred care. This study examines the progression of research in person-centred care, specifically focusing on using complex interventions within intricate contexts. It aims to explore how previous experiences can inform and shape subsequent projects. The review was based on five studies from our research group, encompassing 1099 patients, resulting in 41 peer-reviewed scientific publications. Most studies focused on patients suffering from chronic heart failure, as well as patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Additionally, interventions for acute coronary syndrome and common mental disorders were also considered. Analyses included the development of a logical model for person-centred care, an overview of partnership operationalisation, and the establishment of evaluation criteria for the trials. The analyses involved creating a coherent model for person-centred care, examining partnership operationalisation, and establishing trial evaluation criteria.

Sequential trials build upon their predecessors and add new elements. The studies conducted by clinicians in usual care and in-house by research staff were complementary, providing a deeper understanding of the efficacy and effectiveness of person-centred care. Initiating, working, and safeguarding a partnership between patient and staff was possible, whether through in-person or remote communication. Evaluations followed modern research standards and incorporated past study insights for a more thorough approach. This study highlights how the cumulative experience from previous research in person-centred care informs the design and analyses of subsequent projects through an iterative learning process, particularly important for complex interventions in various health care contexts.