Definitions of compassion in healthcare

There are varying definitions of compassion in healthcare. As we approach quality management, it is important to evaluate and measure performance in a compassionate manner. Compassion in healthcare is defined as the “sensitivity shown in order to understand another person’s suffering, combined with the willingness to help and to promote the wellbeing of that person, in order to find a solution to their situation” (Perez-Bret, Altisent, & Rocafort , 2016). Reviewing opportunities for improvement in a compassionate manner allows the quality team to better address the gaps in care from a holistic perspective.

1 Peter 3:8 states, “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble” (New International Version, 1973/2011). Using this verse as the cornerstone of quality management improvement allows the quality team to not only be compassionate in their improvement efforts but also to highlight the importance of cultural competence, the ability to identify opportunities through a different lens. God calls us to sympathize with each other, to have compassion one for another, and to empathize in the trials and difficulties that our brothers and sisters in Christ are going through, to be there to help and comfort, to support and encourage.

The need to submit to authority, we all have different roles in reducing patients’ suffering

Question:

What healthcare experience would you change based on the devotional content,  and what is the importance of cultural competency in compassionate care delivery?