This study abroad experience has been nothing short of memorable. From listening to clinical engineers and former ENT surgeons to attending COVID and Sustainability workshops, we have had the opportunity to learn about healthcare from the engineering, clinical, and public policy perspective. From all of these talks, one of the specific conversations that stuck out to me was about Maggie’s Centers, a unique approach to caring for cancer patients. During this trip, we learned the importance of incorporating empathy into healthcare and Maggie’s does just that.
Maggie Keswick Jencks, a cancer patient herself, knew all to well the stress and burden of cancer treatment for both the patient and their family. Clinical oncology settings often do not offer the emotional support they need which is why Maggie envisioned this type of care facility that focuses on the person’s mental and social wellbeing. In 1996, the first Maggie’s Center opened in Edinburgh. To date, there are 26 UK centers and 3 national centers. These centers are places where cancer patients can go to find information and support during their treatment. They are home-like and welcoming. They are typically located near the hospitals and relatively accessible for the patients. Most importantly, they are cost-free.
This approach to healthcare is innovative. Maggie conceptualized the idea from personal experience and founded her brand on empathy. Maggie’s Centers are patient-focused, not profit-driven. This design needs to be modeled more in patient care. Oftentimes, physical vitality is prioritized over mental and emotional wellbeing, but ultimately the patient’s comfort and happiness should come first.