It is important to include costs for facilitating smooth implementation of person-centred care

Traditional economic evaluations of costs and health outcomes on a patient-level have largely reported that person-centred care is cost-effective. However, these assessments often neglect the resources required for the transition in care practices. In a recent publication, published in BMJ Open, the time and salary costs related to implementing person-centred care in the health care services in Region Dalarna are examined. Region Dalarna is one of 21 Swedish regional authorities.  

“This research is dedicated to shedding light on the transformation process within healthcare organizations, encompassing both the operational support unit and local healthcare units”, says Hanna Gyllensten, Associated Professor in Health Care Sciences at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg and researcher in Health Economics at The University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-centred Care GPCC. She is the corresponding author of the study. 

“Our findings reveal that there is indeed a noticeable cost associated with changing healthcare practices. Although this cost may be relatively modest when viewed in the context of an entire healthcare budget, it is essential to take it into consideration during the planning phase to ensure the smooth implementation of person-centred care practices, rather than allowing it to become a potential hindrance.”