What is an essential practice in person-centered care for individuals with disabilities?

Supporting patient autonomy is a fundamental practice in person-centered care for individuals with disabilities. This approach emphasizes the importance of treating individuals as active participants in their own care. By supporting patient autonomy, healthcare providers encourage individuals to express their preferences, make informed choices, and engage in discussions about their care plans.

Empowering patients to take an active role in their healthcare decisions fosters a sense of dignity and respect, which can significantly enhance their overall well-being and satisfaction with the care they receive. It acknowledges that individuals with disabilities have the right to direct their own care based on their unique circumstances, preferences, and goals. This is vital for building trust and rapport between patients and healthcare providers.

In contrast, assuming the preferences of the patient, documenting accommodations without discussion, and limiting the patient's input contradict the principles of person-centered care and may lead to ineffective or unsatisfactory care outcomes.