In a patient-centered care model, where is the patient placed?

• A. The patient is at the center of the interdisciplinary team
• B. The patient is excluded from the interdisciplinary team
• C. The patient is placed at the end of the care team for efficiency
• D. The patient is outside the care team and has no input

Answer: (B)

In patient-centered care, the patient is at the center of the care process and actively participates as a member of the care team. This means the patient, along with their family or chosen supporters, helps set goals, weighs options, and collaborates with all health professionals to tailor a plan that fits the patient’s values and preferences. Clear, ongoing communication and shared decision-making are essential so care aligns with what matters most to the patient.

Choosing to exclude the patient from the team or to place them at the end or outside the team contradicts this approach. Such options undermine autonomy, coordination, and the goal of aligning care with the patient’s personal goals. The correct understanding is that the patient should be at the center and actively involved in the interdisciplinary team.