Engaging patients in primary care design: An evaluation of a novel approach to codesigning care

Abstract

Objective: Recognition is growing that to create truly patient-centred care, health-care organizations need to partner with patients around care design. More research into the benefits of engaging patients and the most effective ways of partnering with them is needed. Methods: This study assessed the process and impact of a collaborative effort to design a new clinic service that balanced the number of patient and clinical provider/staff codesigners involved and recruited patients to represent diverse perspectives. Data sources included interviews with participants, event observation and participant surveys. Results: Our evaluation found that including patients as equal partners improved the design process by infusing a real-world, patient perspective. The pre-event orientation and interactive methods used in the event fostered positive collaboration, as well as personal growth for the patient codesigners. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of including a roughly equal number of patients and clinical providers/staff in design events and ensuring that the patients represent diverse perspectives.