Patient centeredness: The perspectives of uninsured primary care patients in the United States

Introduction Patient-centered care has become increasingly important within the United States (US) healthcare system. Given that patient-centered care predicts patient satisfaction, health outcomes, and cost-effectiveness, it is of the utmost importance to study patient-centered care from the perspectives of marginalized populations including minorities, immigrants, and other underserved populations. The purpose of this study is to examine factors that affect underserved primary care patients’ perceptions of patient centeredness. Methods The data were cross-sectional and collected in Fall 2016. Free clinic patients (N = 723) completed a self-administered survey, which measures patient centeredness, patient involvement in care, and clinical empathy. Validated measures were part of the survey, and the internal consistency of scales was tested. The general linear model was performed to predict factors associated with patients’ perceptions of patient centeredness. Results Higher levels of perceived patient involvement in care and higher levels of perceived empathy in consultation are related to higher levels of patient centeredness. While better physical health is associated with higher levels of perceived empathy in consultation, high levels of emotional health and depression are not. Conclusions Patients’ perceptions of involvement and empathy are important factors for patient-centered care, although this study did not show causal directions among variables. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that future studies should focus on the following three points: (1) to develop and evaluate trainings for providers, (2) develop education classes for patients who utilize free clinics, (3) analyze how these programs affect patient-centered care and health outcomes.