Which term describes the involvement of patients in their own care processes?

The term that best describes the involvement of patients in their own care processes is patient engagement. Patient engagement refers to the strategies and actions that encourage patients to take an active role in their health care. This includes understanding their health conditions, making informed decisions about treatment options, and collaborating with healthcare providers in planning and executing their care. By fostering patient engagement, healthcare settings can enhance patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment plans, and overall health outcomes.

While patient empowerment also relates to enabling patients to take charge of their health, it focuses more on the ability to influence and direct one’s own health decisions, whereas patient engagement emphasizes the active participation in the care process itself. Patient-centered care is a broader concept that includes engaging patients but encapsulates a holistic approach to providing care tailored to individual patient needs and preferences. Patient loyalty refers to a patient’s commitment to a particular healthcare provider or system and does not directly address their involvement in the care process. Thus, patient engagement captures the essence of patients actively participating in their own health care.