Ensuring Patient-Centered Care During an Emergency in Resource-Constrained Primary Health Care Settings

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Patient-centered care (PCC) is crucial in primary health care (PHC) emergency settings, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Effective PCC relies on trusting patient-provider relationships, dignity, and shared decision-making.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) framework for PHCs underscores the importance of accessible, community-based emergency care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the principles and implementation of patient-centered care (PCC) within primary health care (PHC) emergency settings in resource-limited contexts.
• To highlight the significance of cultural adaptation and community engagement in strengthening PCC in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Main Methods:

• The study synthesizes existing literature and WHO guidelines on primary healthcare centers (PHCs) and patient-centered care (PCC).
• It emphasizes a qualitative approach focusing on trust-building, dignity, shared decision-making, and cultural relevance.
• The analysis incorporates a whole-of-society perspective, including community and leadership engagement.

Main Results:

• PCC in LMIC emergency settings necessitates strong patient-provider trust and respectful treatment.
• Early, localized emergency responses are vital, reducing access barriers.
• Adapting care to local cultures and involving families and communities enhances PCC effectiveness, especially with limited resources.

Conclusions:

• Patient-centered care (PCC) is adaptable and essential for improving emergency responses in primary health care (PHC) within low-resource environments.
• Building trust through open communication and integrating traditional practices are key strategies.
• A community-engaged, culturally sensitive approach is fundamental for successful PCC implementation in LMICs.