Healthcare exists in a constantly evolving landscape, with new data, evidence, and knowledge emerging on a regular basis. At the current forefront is a focus on engaging patients at multiple levels, while also seeking to partner with family members when appropriate. While there are various definitions of patient engagement, all center around having a partnership with the many entities involved in care, including researchers, clinical staff, administration and even those making policy.

Emerging data shows improved outcomes for patients who take an active role in the continuum of care which includes prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This framework is a shift away from the more authoritarian approach that has marked earlier models of care. This proposed collaborative method, in order to be effective, must also keep in mind the complexities of the current system and its many constraints which include time, complicated reimbursement policies, and a costly system of health care which utilizes a wide variety of intermediaries to make decisions.

Change is often challenging, especially when it happens at the process, cultural, and structural levels. Despite the potential fear of the unknown, this article makes a compelling case that more engagement from those receiving care, along with their family members (who are also impacted as caregivers), will lead to better experiences, efficiency, and outcomes for all.