WATERLOO – The Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) recently launched a new Patient Declaration of Values for the local health system.
The new values reflect what matters most to patients and their families when accessing health care, officials say.
The values statement was developed by the LHIN’s Patient and Family Advisory Committee in collaboration with 20 other patient and family groups from across the region, including representatives from all local hospitals.
Local clinicians were consulted and in favour of the initiative being driven by patients and their families.
“One of the most important things we are doing is listening to patients and their families to identify what they value most when they access health care,” said LHIN CEO Bruce Lauckner.
“This new Patient Declaration of Values will help the entire health system work together to ensure we are improving the patient experience and providing equitable care for everyone in Waterloo Wellington.”
The new Patient Declaration of Values states that patients can expect their health care to include:
– patient-centred care that understands patients are a whole person, treats them with compassion and respect; and includes their family and support system in their care;
– a partnership with care providers that shares responsibility and accountability with patients, provides care and support to achieve patients’ health goals; and considers all health needs and connects patients to health/community services;
– communication that allows patients to be heard in a safe and caring environment, provides clear health information, and shares open and transparent information with patients and their care teams;
– equitable care that puts patient needs first regardless of situation, eliminates barriers to receiving timely and safe services, and is free of prejudice, stigma, judgment;
– continuous improvement in health care that provides access to the best quality of care, increases access to new innovative technology and treatments, and contributes to confidence and trust in the health system.
The LHIN is requesting hospitals and health service providers adopt the Patient Declaration of Values or develop their own in collaboration with patient and family representatives.
