Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Akselrad
Abstract
Empathy is a critical component that allows providers to build a trusting relationship with patients, which ultimately improves patient empowerment and outcomes. This paper will examine the barriers healthcare professionals face in delivering empathetic care, explore how empathy improves patient care, and discuss strategies for cultivating and sustaining empathy in clinical settings. Within modern health systems, empathy is challenged by time constraints, provider burnout, and training gaps. Without empathy, patient outcomes and workplace culture suffer. Cultivating empathy can be achieved through training and education, institutional support, and incentivization. A systemic approach to improving healthcare personnel empathy at every level is necessary to optimize healthcare outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Ogden, Alyssa, "Empathy in Medicine: Enhancing Patient Care and Improving Health Outcomes" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 67.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2025/pa/67
Empathy in Medicine: Enhancing Patient Care and Improving Health Outcomes
Empathy is a critical component that allows providers to build a trusting relationship with patients, which ultimately improves patient empowerment and outcomes. This paper will examine the barriers healthcare professionals face in delivering empathetic care, explore how empathy improves patient care, and discuss strategies for cultivating and sustaining empathy in clinical settings. Within modern health systems, empathy is challenged by time constraints, provider burnout, and training gaps. Without empathy, patient outcomes and workplace culture suffer. Cultivating empathy can be achieved through training and education, institutional support, and incentivization. A systemic approach to improving healthcare personnel empathy at every level is necessary to optimize healthcare outcomes.