Benchmarking patient- and family-centered care: highlights from a study of practices in 26 academic medical centers.

Patient- and family-centered care (PFCC) is premised on the belief that patients, families, and healthcare providers who are empowered and engaged throughout the healthcare system are integral components, with each vital to the delivery of quality and safe care. Adopting a PFCC culture can result in improved quality, safety, communication, and patient satisfaction. University HealthSystem Consortium hospitals that have adopted these concepts have demonstrated significant improvements. By using an initial survey, developing benchmark parameters, and conducting ongoing analysis and feedback, these hospitals have developed ways to reap many benefits.