Users outline how to make compassionate health service

People who have used the health services have spelled out the components of compassionate healthcare in a survey conducted online.

Patient Opinion, whose website collates patient experiences of the Irish health system, asked members of the public to participate in a survey which involved patients, family members, the general public, and healthcare professionals.

In total 500 people responded — the majority of whom were female. They were asked what elements were needed to deliver compassionate healthcare, and 88% said a number of behaviours were involved:

While 26% stated that listening is a key component involved within compassionate healthcare; 25% said overall empathy and empathic behaviours were needed. While 21% of respondents said ‘caring’ was important; 15% said kindness was a specific behavioural characteristic of compassionate healthcare; and 13% cited respect and dignity.

Another 13% said communication was a key aspect of any compassionate healthcare system; and 10% referenced patient-centred approach and family supports.

Other respondents mentioned the need for a quality service and others said a healthcare provider should spend an adequate and sufficient amount of time with each patient.

The findings from the Patient Opinion survey come after a conference held earlier this week in Cashel on the subject of Compassionate Leadership in the health services, which was attended by representatives from the HSE, the Royal College of Surgeons and others.