Revisiting the apparently lost art of compassion in the healthcare system: Challenges, barriers, or impediments

The healthcare system’s increasing focus on efficiency and productivity has resulted in a reduction in the amount of time healthcare providers can dedicate to patient care. This limited time, combined with a heavy workload, creates a vicious cycle where healthcare providers struggle to develop meaningful relationships with their patients, thereby impeding their ability to demonstrate compassion. Detecting and addressing lapses in compassionate care becomes increasingly challenging under these circumstances. Compassionate care is a vital component of healthcare setting as it offers numerous benefits. It has the potential to improve patient outcomes by enhancing treatment adherence and reducing feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression. Furthermore, it contributes to higher levels of patient satisfaction and trust in healthcare providers, ultimately leading to a more positive patient experience. To cultivate compassion in healthcare, it is essential to establish organizational support, provide comprehensive education, and offer training opportunities. By fostering a supportive work environment that values and recognizes the importance of compassionate care, healthcare organizations can actively promote its integration. Future of compassionate care lies in a dual approach that combines traditional compassionate practices with the advancements of digital technologies. This review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on compassionate care, explore its various dimensions, and highlight the benefits it brings from both the perspective of healthcare providers and patients. In addition, this study seeks to identify the challenges and barriers to incorporating compassionate care into the healthcare system. By addressing these challenges and finding practical solutions, healthcare organizations can strive toward delivering compassionate care that encompasses the holistic well-being of patients.