The Francis Report --The Importance of Person-Centred Health and Care.

The relational elements of care are often described as'soft skills'or'nice to have'but not essential in the modern world of evidence-based healthcare. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, this type of language relegates person-centred approaches to a lower status compared to other key aspects of quality, such as safety or financial performance. Person-centredness is a powerful underpinning philosophy that has the potential to transform the way we deliver care and support as well as enhancing the quality of services. However, our healthcare system will not become more person-centred of its own accord. Thoughtful, deliberate action is required to support this change. Clinical relevance: The person-centred approach is vital in achieving safe, effective, efficient care.