WHO report highlights the role of compassion in healthcare

The World Health Organization (WHO) has published a new report highlighting the impact of compassion in healthcare. This 5-year study explores how compassionate care can improve patient outcomes and access to treatment and emphasises its role in creating more equitable and effective healthcare systems. 

Key findings from the report

• Compassion improves patient outcomes. When patients feel respected, they are more likely to trust healthcare professionals, follow treatment plans, and manage their health effectively. 

• Compassion means better access to care. Patients are more likely to seek medical help when treated with dignity, reducing health disparities worldwide. 

• Compassion is a core principle of Primary Healthcare (PHC). As more countries adopt PHC, integrating compassion into healthcare systems can enhance the quality of care. 

“Patients, like me, are often anxious and fearful about meeting with healthcare professionals – will they listen and understand the impact of my condition? Far too often, patients come away from appointments feeling misunderstood and disappointed that there was little communication, compassion and empathy. I share this frustration.

Patients must have a voice in their treatment and should be treated with respect.  We are not “just another number.” If we do not begin to prioritise compassion in healthcare, it will continue to be a lose-lose for patients and healthcare professionals.”

– Helen Parks, United Patient Advisory Group representative

Challenges to compassionate care 

The WHO report also identifies key challenges preventing the widespread implementation of compassionate care, including: 

• Time constraints: Busy healthcare environments limit the time professionals can spend with patients. 

• Unsupportive leadership: A lack of respect and support for healthcare staff impacts their ability to provide compassionate care. 

• Limited training: Many healthcare professionals are not trained in delivering compassionate, patient-centred care. 

• System pressures: Financial and operational demands often take priority over improving patient experience. 

“Often, patients struggle to receive the support they need, and empathy and understanding plays a big role in making us feel seen. Patients, professionals and policymakers must work together to place compassion higher up on the public health agenda and improve the treatment conditions for patients worldwide.”

– Dimitris Kontopidis, ELF Chair 

Why is this important? 

Compassion can improve outcomes and quality of life for patients around the world, but limited understanding of its benefits prevents its use in healthcare. This report highlights the need for policymakers, healthcare professionals and patient groups to prioritise compassionate care. Strengthening leadership, training healthcare staff and addressing systemic challenges will help ensure all patients receive the care and respect they deserve. 

Read the full WHO report here.