Planetree is Coming

Planetree, named after the tree under which Hippocrates taught his students, involves providers partnering with patients and families to identify and satisfy the full range of patient needs and preferences. Engaging patients in their own care improves clinical outcomes studies show.  Additionally, patients increasingly make decisions regarding where to seek care based on the manner through which the care is delivered and patient loyalty is driven by their experience of their care.

Danbury Health Systems has made great strides in providing a high quality patient experience,  but we want additional focus to truly transform the culture and move the organization to the next level. To this end, and with the support of a Development Fund sponsor, we have become a Planetree Affiliate.

It is imperative that this plan gain involved physician support to develop, test and implement any changes.

 Danbury Hospital's Planetree model will not look exactly like any other Planetree hospital, but here are some Planetree actions from other hospitals:

• A patient and family advisory council actively provides input to hospital leadership in some cases by having patients and family members participate on hospital committees.
• Patients are made aware of how to raise a concern related to safety or care.  They are encouraged to ask questions.
• Families can activate “FAST” teams and remain with patients during codes.
• Patients and families are able to participate in rounds & change of shift report.
• Patients are able to contribute their own progress notes.
• Patients and families are encouraged to participate in discharge planning.
• Patients have access to their medical record while they are being treated.
• Plans of care are written in a language that patients/families understand.
• Tools are provided to patients to help them manage their medications, medical appointments, and other health care needs.
• Staff’s stress-reduction and wellness needs are addressed.
• Staff has opportunities to provide input re: enhancing the work experience.

There is no “one size fits all”. We’ll be working with our leadership team, staff, medical staff, and patients to define our model.  We have held informational sessions, and conducted focus groups attended by staff from across the health system, physicians, and patients. In February, we’ll begin deeper education of our management team, followed by staff training sessions. In the early spring, we’ll be forming implementation teams that will identify and oversee changes in order to become a more patient-centered organization. Changes may involve such things as environmental design, dietary offerings, amenities for patients and staff, communication processes, visitation, alternative therapies, and medical record access.

If you would like to learn more about the Planetree Organization, the Planetree.org website is a great resource. We look forward to your participation in our journey toward a more patient-centered culture. We will continue to provide you with frequent updates. Any questions you may have can be directed to Dawn Myles, VP Quality and Patient Safety at Dawn.Myles@danhosp.org or (203) 739-7668.