Patient-centric paradigm: A systems thinking approach to enhance healthcare

Objective: The study aims to investigate the impact of patient-centric approaches on patient health outcomes, identify key leverage points for enhancing patient-centered care, and evaluate the effectiveness of systems thinking in guiding healthcare transformations. 

Methods and Procedures: The research utilizes system dynamics methodology, combining qualitative and quantitative data with causal loop diagrams and simulation models. Using Vensim software, the study examines dynamic interactions, feedback loops, and the effects of patient-centric interventions. Sensitivity analysis assesses the impact of variables such as access to healthcare improvements, and social determinants of health (SDOH), providing insights into the systemic behaviors of healthcare models. 

Results: Simulation analyses demonstrate the effectiveness of patient-centric interventions in improving engagement, satisfaction, communication, and health outcomes. Key leverage points, such as enhanced patient-provider communication and addressing SDOH, are critical for driving sustainable improvements. However, declining trends in outcomes over time indicate the need for adaptive strategies to maintain effectiveness. 

Conclusions: The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining patient centricity in healthcare settings. By leveraging systems thinking and addressing underlying factors such as SDOH, the research provides actionable insights to enhance care delivery and patient outcomes. Despite the limitations of simulated data, the findings contribute to understanding the dynamic interplay between patient-centric strategies and healthcare system performance, advocating for sustained efforts to ensure equitable and effective care.