What is Family-centered care?

Family-centered care is an approach to pediatric health care that focuses on the family as a child’s primary source of strength and support. The philosophy shapes policies, programs, facility design and staff day-to-day practices. It is visible in large and small ways throughout hospitals that adopt the approach. Information sharing and collaboration between families and staff are the cornerstones of family-centered care.

Family-centered health care professionals recognize the vital role families play in ensuring the health and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and family members of all ages. They acknowledge emotional, social and developmental support are integral components of health care.

With this approach, family centered care

• empowers families and fosters independence;
• supports family caregiving and decision making;
• respects family choices;
• builds on family strengths and
• involves families in all aspects of the planning, delivery and evaluation of health care services.

The Key Principles of Family-Centered Care

• People are treated with dignity and respect.
• Health care providers communicate and share complete and unbiased information with families in ways that are affirming and useful.
• Individuals and families build on their strengths by participating in experiences that enhance control and independence.