Although patient partnership has been established in some healthcare quarters of healthcare for several years (Cancer Networks, Medical Royal Colleges etc) quality has varied and genuine equity, with patients being involved 'from the outset' a rare practice. I have experienced the best, and the worst.
By opening its doors to much wider patient participation, the British Medical Journal can show by example what partnership with patients should really mean.
This isn't just an opportunity for patients and patient advocates to have a voice, it's a unique opportunity to change mindsets; to change a culture. On a par with women being allowed into pubs (and men's clubs)?
Genuine partnership with patients brings a new dimension to healthcare, one that is sorely needed. The BMJ is to be congratulated on this bold move.
Rapid Response:
Re: Towards the patient revolution
Although patient partnership has been established in some healthcare quarters of healthcare for several years (Cancer Networks, Medical Royal Colleges etc) quality has varied and genuine equity, with patients being involved 'from the outset' a rare practice. I have experienced the best, and the worst.
By opening its doors to much wider patient participation, the British Medical Journal can show by example what partnership with patients should really mean.
This isn't just an opportunity for patients and patient advocates to have a voice, it's a unique opportunity to change mindsets; to change a culture. On a par with women being allowed into pubs (and men's clubs)?
Genuine partnership with patients brings a new dimension to healthcare, one that is sorely needed. The BMJ is to be congratulated on this bold move.
Competing interests: No competing interests