Schwartz Center Rounds
Overview
The Schwartz Center Rounds are a unique and highly effective forum for improving the relationship and increasing the understanding between patients and clinical caregivers by:
- exploring the human dimension of health care;
- enhancing communication among caregivers;
- promoting teamwork among caregivers;
- providing support to caregivers; and
- giving caregivers knowledge and insight into the non-clinical aspects of patient care.
Since 2000, the Schwartz Rounds at Emerson Hospital have been coordinated by Dr. Jon DuBois and sponsored by the Kenneth B. Schwartz Center. The Rounds meet 10 months of the year from September through June and are usually held on the first Friday of the month (11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.). The topic and objectives are sent out prior to the meeting.
Purpose
The Schwartz Center Rounds were created to provide a multidisciplinary forum where clinical caregivers have the opportunity to discuss their experiences, thoughts and feelings. The Rounds, which differ from medical or ethics rounds, offer caregivers a safe, open and relaxed place where they can share their concerns and fears, both for their patients and themselves. The premise is that caregivers are better able to make a personal connection with patients when they have greater awareness of and insight into their own responses and feelings. The Rounds provide a scheduled time and place where caregivers focus on the social, emotional and personal aspects of patient care.
Intended Audience
A broad range of professionals from diverse disciplines participate including physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, physical therapists and clergy. In addition, Emerson administration and support staff are often in attendance. All participants must be affiliated with Emerson Hospital. The participation at Emerson Hospital Rounds is typically in the range of 50-75. There are always “regulars” who return each month as well as newcomers.
For More Information
If you have further questions about the Schwartz Rounds at Emerson Hospital, please contact Lori Noonan at 978-287-3237 for assistance.
Please note:
Kenneth B. Schwartz, a healthcare attorney, died of lung cancer at age 40. Just days before his death in 1995, he established The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center to promote a health care system where caregivers were compassionate, engaged, and able to spend the necessary time with patients, addressing both their medical and emotional needs.
For information regarding The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center and other Rounds locations across the nation, please visit their website www.theschwartzcenter.org.
