Involving the Family in Patient Care: A Culturally Tailored Communication Model

Abstract

Abstract Background: Family involvement is a critical component of patient-centered care that impacts the quality of care and patient outcome. Our aim was to develop a patient- and family-based communication model suitable for societies with extended families. Methods: A multidisciplinary team was formed to conduct a situational analysis and review the patterns of family involvement in our patient population. Patient complaints were reviewed also to identify gaps in communication with families. The team proposed a model to facilitate the involvement of the family in the patient's care through the improvement of communication. Results: A communication model was developed keeping the patient in the center of communication but involving the family through identifying the most responsible family member. To assure structured measurable contact, mandatory points of communication were defined. The model streamlines communication with the family but maintaining the patients' rights and autonomy. Conclusion: Our proposed model of communication takes into account the importance of communication with the family in a structured way. The team believes that it is going to be accepted by patients who will be explored in the pilot implementation stage as the next future step.