International Journal of Emergency Mental Health and Human Resilience
Open Access

Abstract

Schwartz Center Rounds® are multidisciplinary meetings where caregivers reflect on important psychosocial issues faced by patients, their families, and their caregivers, and gain insight and support from fellow staff members, with the goal of advancing compassionate health care, supporting caregivers, and fostering the connection between clinician and patient. Rounds were initiated at the MGH Cancer Center in 1997 and have since grown to include in more than 320 healthcare facilities in 39 states, and most cancer centers nationwide. In a formal evaluation of the impact of rounds participants reported increased insight into psychosocial aspects of care; enhanced compassion; increased ability to respond to patients�?? social and emotional issues; enhanced communication amongst caregivers; greater appreciation of colleagues�?? roles and contributions. Attendees reported decreased feelings of stress and isolation and a greater sense of teamwork. Participants reported that Rounds discussions led to changes in institutional practices or policies. Patient centered care requires that we balance modern medicine with humanism, through the different phases of patients�?? experience of life threatening illness. Schwartz Center Rounds provide a forum for discussion of challenging psychosocial, spiritual and emotional issues and promotes resilience.

Biography