Lived experiences of healthcare. Putting the person in person centred care in the medical radiation sciences

Abstract

IntroductionContemporary healthcare models recognise person-centred care (PCC) as a fundamental principle of quality, safe care. While substantial literature exists on PCC in healthcare generally, there is less evidence on how this relates to medical imaging and radiation therapy.Embedding patient-lived experiences of healthcare into healthcare education has promise in enhancing students’ confidence in delivering PCC. Digital storytelling (DST) of patient-lived experiences can help improve reflection, understanding, critical thinking and empathy. MethodsAuthentic patient-lived experiences were extracted from students’ clinical workbooks, transformed into first person vignettes and integrated into the curriculum. Students were invited to attend focus groups to explore the impact the activity had on the student. ResultsThematic analysis identified three themes. (1) Enhancing PCC; (2) Mode of Delivery (Scaffolded Learning); and (3) Collaborative Learning. PCC was the strongest theme with students stating this is the first time they engaged in an activity focused on the psychosocial aspect of patient care. The majority of students indicated the mode of delivery was engaging and unique, whereby the vignettes were presented incrementally. Collaborative learning was identified by over half of the students where learning took place in a safe and supportive environment. ConclusionThis project explored students’ perspectives of integrating patient-lived experiences into the curriculum via DST. Students who engaged with the activities felt better prepared to deliver quality safe PCC. Implications for practiceProviding healthcare students with opportunities to develop skills to deliver PCC before they enter the workforce can enhance their confidence in delivering effective PCC.