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171 Ashley Ave.
Charleston, SC 29425
843-792-1414
800-424-MUSC


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Family-Centered Care

mom, kid, doc MUSC Children's Hospital believes that family-centered care is an important part of what we do. Family-centered care means patients, their families, doctors, nurses and other health care professionals form a partnership that benefits everyone. A "family member" is recognized as anyone whom patients regard as significant in their lives. Families are not considered visitors, but essential participants in care and decisions that affect the total healing of the child. The components of family centered care are: respect and dignity, information sharing, participation and collaboration.

The Goal

The ultimate goal of patient- and family-centered care is to create partnerships among health care practitioners, patients and families that will lead to the best outcomes and enhance the quality and safety of health care.

Family-Centered Care Principles
  • Respect and Dignity- We are free of biases, treat others as equals, and do not label others.


  • Information Sharing- We communicate and share complete and unbiased information with patients and families in ways that are affirming and useful.


  • Participation - Individuals and families build on their strengths by participating in experiences that enhance control and independence.


  • Collaboration - Meaningful sharing occurs in policy and program development, professional education as well as in the delivery of patient care.
Family-Centered Care Initiatives at MUSC Children's Hospital include:
  • Family Advisory Council initiated in January 2005
  • Family participation in planning for new NNICU
  • Family-Centered Care Steering Committee initiated in January 2006
Click here to read one family's story on how family-centered care at MUSC Children's Hospital made a difference in their lives when they needed it the most.


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