Working according to a philosophy of person-centred care, Anadolu Medical Center became the first hospital in Turkey to receive Planetree Gold Certification for a second time.
What is person-centred care
Person-centred care is a multidimensional approach that requires a transformation of organisational culture. At its heart is treating the individual not simply as a “patient”, but as a person with their own experience, values, choices and expectations, placed at the centre of care.
Planetree was founded in 1978 in the United States by a patient who had had a poor experience in hospital. The organisation studies how healthcare institutions can become an environment that supports healing: more than 50,000 patients, family members and healthcare professionals have been asked what they expect from a better care experience.
During the accreditation, Planetree surveyors held in-depth interviews with 25 patients and family members, as well as with 55 members of the hospital’s staff, in order to understand the reality of care at Anadolu.
Attention not only to patients, but also to staff
One of Planetree’s fundamental requirements is attention to staff: just as it studies the expectations and needs of patients, the hospital also works systematically on the expectations, choices and needs of its employees.
Person-centred care, in our patients’ own words
- “During radiotherapy I suddenly panicked and burst into tears — three nurses immediately rushed over to me. What immense compassion they showed! They hugged me and suggested I take a break. I will always remember it.”
- “The staff are kind, courteous and calm. Before a test you feel anxious, but the highly professional laboratory technicians and nurses reassure you a great deal. They really are good people, carefully chosen to work with patients.”
- “All the staff here are very caring; it is a well-run place overall. I am grateful for the care I received and I always felt at ease.”
- “The staff are so warm that when you see the smiles on their faces, you know you are in a safe place. It has a very positive effect on your morale.”