Patient Journey

The complete experience of an individual navigating through the healthcare system, from the first point of contact to ongoing care and, if applicable, end-of-life considerations.

 

Touchpoints:

Specific interactions or encounters between a patient and the healthcare system, including appointments, consultations, tests, and follow-ups, contributing to their overall journey.

 

Patient-Centered Care:

A healthcare approach that prioritizes the individual needs, preferences, and values of patients throughout their journey, ensuring their active involvement in decision-making.

 

Care Continuum:

The seamless and coordinated progression of care across different healthcare settings and providers, enhancing the overall patient journey.

 

Health Literacy:

The ability of individuals to understand and use health information, influencing their capacity to actively participate in their care journey.

 

Empowerment:

Enabling patients to actively engage in their healthcare decisions and treatment plans, fostering a sense of control and ownership over their journey.

 

Digital Health Tools:

Technologies and apps that support and enhance the patient journey, including telehealth services, mobile applications, and patient portals for information and communication.

 

Decision Aids:

Resources provided to patients to facilitate informed decision-making at critical points in their journey, ensuring alignment with their values and preferences.

 

Shared Decision-Making:

A collaborative approach where healthcare providers and patients work together to make decisions about the patient’s care, considering medical evidence and personal values.

 

Patient Navigation:

Assistance provided to patients to help them navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, ensuring timely access to necessary services and resources.

 

Palliative Care:

Specialized care focused on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses, often integrated into the patient journey.

 

Transition of Care:

The process of moving a patient from one healthcare setting to another, ensuring continuity and coordination of care for a smooth journey.

 

Patient Engagement:

The active involvement of patients in their own healthcare, promoting communication, education, and collaboration throughout their journey.

 

Cultural Competence:

The ability of healthcare providers to understand, respect, and respond effectively to the cultural needs and backgrounds of patients throughout their journey.