Hospital Overview

Embracing Planetree: A Journey into Person-Centered Healthcare at CMH

Welcome to Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) and the CMH-OHSU Health Medical Group, where the essence of care lies in our commitment to Planetree—a philosophy shaping our approach to healthcare since 2000.

What is Planetree? It's not just a certification; it's a dedication to transforming healthcare into a person-centered experience. Founded in 1978 by a patient seeking a shift from illness-focused care to a people-centric approach, Planetree aligns with our ethos at CMH. It underscores our belief that each person who walks through our doors deserves personalized, respectful attention, valuing them beyond their medical condition.

Person-centered care isn't a mere concept here; it's the cornerstone of everything we do. It's about seeing patients, visitors, and caregivers as unique individuals, not just cases to be treated. Our providers collaborate with patients and families, placing emphasis on comfort, preferences, values, dignity, and empowerment. Decisions about care are shared, free from judgment, ensuring a partnership in the healing journey.

At CMH, the Planetree certification revolves around five drivers that we integrate into our operations:

Structures that promote engagement:

  • Patient Family Advisory Council (PFAC) and Planetree Caregiver Council (PCC): These groups ensure diverse voices contribute to our strategic plans.
  • Accountability for behavioral expectations: Our commitment to person-centered care is reflected in job descriptions and evaluations.
  • Rewards and recognition: Caregivers embodying excellence are acknowledged for their commitment to improvement.
  • Design of space: Our environment supports engagement, incorporating nature and light into spaces for well-being.

Connect values, strategies, and actions:

  • CEO Coffees and Leadership rounding: These avenues ensure leadership listens and responds to the needs of our caregivers and community.
  • Community Health Needs Assessment: We regularly assess and address the diverse needs of our community.
  • Training: Annual education focusing on person-centered concepts empowers our caregivers.

Promote partnership:

  • Bedside reports and Patient-guided visitation: We involve patients in their care decisions and welcome their loved ones as support.
  • Care Partner Program and Open chart: Patients can designate a caregiver and access their medical records.
  • Transitions of care: We ensure seamless transitions between providers and settings for continuity of care.

Know what matters:

  • Stratification of data: We analyze patient experience data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
  • Recognition of patient preferences: We prioritize patient preferences across various aspects of care.
  • Care for caregivers: Our staff's well-being is crucial, and we provide support, wellness opportunities, and benefits.

Evidence-based improvement:

  • Surveying data and Collecting data: We use feedback and data to continuously improve departments and plan for the future.

At CMH, the Planetree philosophy isn't just a certification; it's a way of life—a commitment to providing holistic, person-centered care that respects individuality and empowers healing. Join us in embracing a healthcare experience focused on people, not just illnesses.

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