Abstract

Patient and public involvement in health care process is to increase participation in the decision on the treatment of patients or strategic decisions about health services and policies at the national level for meeting the needs of patients and increasing their control over health services. It is based on using of the “with patients” concept instead of "for patients" concept. Patients and society can contribute in various ways by participation in the health services. Selection of the appropriate treatment methods, ensuring adherence to treatment, determination of side effects, organizational quality improvement activities, resource allocation decisions and support for health policies are these contributions. Literature focuses on the potential benefit of gradually increasing participation by supporting the patient and public involvement. In this study, it was the assumption that the participation of patient and public involvement to the the health services decision-making process will contribute to the development of health services. The purpose of the study is to determine the role of patient and public involvement in the process of planning delivery, improving and developing of health services. In this context, giving place to the scope of the concept of patient and public involvement, its levels and its advantages and practical difficulties; research findings and practical applicability is discussed.

Key words: Health Services, Patient Involvement, Public Involvement, Evidence-based Decision Making, Empowerment

Article Language: Turkish English