Discover how person-centred care transcends borders and takes on unique forms in different cultures and communities. Join me as I reflect on powerful lessons from the Planetree Person-Centred Care Forum in New Orleans, exploring shared principles, diverse practices, and a renewed gratitude for equity in healthcare.

The Planetree Person-Centred Care Forum in New Orleans this October was a powerful reminder that while the principles of person-centred care may unite us, the ways we embody and express them are as diverse as the communities we serve. It was an enriching experience to listen, learn, and reflect on how cultural, systemic, and personal contexts shape our approach to healthcare across the world.

Attending this forum felt like embarking on a journey through a mosaic of perspectives, each uniquely valuable and thought-provoking. I left New Orleans not only inspired but also with a renewed sense of gratitude for the opportunities within Australia's public health system and the growing emphasis on equity that defines our evolving healthcare landscape.

Shared Principles, Unique Practices
At its core, person-centred care is built on universal principles: respect, empathy, dignity, and collaboration. These ideals transcend borders and resonate across every healthcare setting. However, the way these principles are translated into action varies significantly depending on cultural norms, available resources, and societal values.

The forum highlighted these nuances through dynamic discussions and storytelling. For example, I heard about small community clinics in underserved regions creating profound patient-provider relationships with minimal resources. In contrast, high-tech hospitals showcased how they integrate cutting-edge technology with empathy to provide personalised care. Each story reflected a deep commitment to the same overarching goal, yet the methods were tailored to the needs of specific communities.

The Power of Listening to Diverse Voices
One of the most impactful parts of the forum was hearing the experiences of providers from around the world. It was humbling to learn how they navigate challenges unique to their environments while striving to uphold person-centred values.

A recurring thought I had was the importance of cultural humility. Providers spoke about learning from their patients and communities, adapting their practices to align with local cultural values. These conversations reminded me that person-centred care isn’t a one-size-fits-all model but a fluid, evolving approach grounded in genuine human connection.

These global perspectives reinforced the idea that person-centred care is a journey, not a destination. Every small step—whether through a new program, a deeper conversation with a patient, or advocating for equity—moves us closer to creating a healthcare system that truly serves everyone.

Gratitude for the Australian Context
Returning home, I felt an immense gratitude for the Australian public health system. Its focus on equity, while not perfect, reflects an ongoing commitment to ensuring access to quality care for all. This emphasis on fairness and inclusivity is a cornerstone of person-centred care and one that I feel privileged to witness and contribute to.

At the same time, I recognised the disparities and challenges faced by other systems. Hearing about these struggles made me appreciate the progress we've made in Australia while inspiring me to advocate for continued improvement. Equity is not a checkbox but a value we must continually strive to embody, especially as new challenges arise.

Moving Forward Together
The Planetree forum reminded me that person-centred care is both a shared vision and a deeply personal journey. It’s encouraging to see healthcare professionals worldwide taking steps—big and small—toward creating systems that honour the humanity of people and providers alike.

Every conversation, every initiative, every effort matters. Whether it’s implementing a simple act of kindness in a busy clinic or overhauling policies to address systemic inequities, these steps are all part of a larger movement toward compassionate care.

As I move forward, I carry the lessons and stories from New Orleans with me. They reaffirm my belief that while our approaches may differ, our shared commitment to person-centred care binds us together. Let’s continue to listen, learn, and grow, celebrating each step forward on this journey to better healthcare for all.