Abstract

Background Patient-centered care (PCC) is a key principle of high-quality health care and is becoming increasingly relevant in many countries. In 2006, Chile declared PCC as a fundamental pillar of its health care system. However, PCC implementation in the Chilean healthcare system is still lagging. Some factors contributing to this are 1) the complexity of the concept, 2) the interdependence between healthcare activities and policy regulations, and 3) the need for a cultural change in health politics and care. This paper shares experiences of how we have tried to address some of these challenges by establishing an international network for PCC. Methods As part of a collaborative project between researchers and clinicians based in Chile and Germany, have established the International Network for Patient-Centered Care (PCC NET) that enables knowledge exchange and trainings through different means. Results A website was developed and launchedas a platform to share knowledge. Furthermore, a series of online seminars on PCC was organized, each conducted by an international expert in the field. In January 2023, several face-to-face were held in Chile attended by 51 participants, comprising health care professionals responsible for implementing PCC in the country, those working for the Ministry of Health or those in primary care in Chile. Workshops were evaluated by assessing the participants' reactions via surveys, and the participants rated the workshops positively. In January 2024, the first Latin American Conference on Patient-Centered Care was implemented in Santiago de Chile. There were four keynotes, two roundtables, five workshops, 31 oral and 19 poster presentations from both research and clinical practice during the two conference days with 196 participants on location. Conclusion Establishing the PCC NET has facilitated international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building for PCC implementation in Chile. Through different communication strategies, such as workshops, seminars and a conference, it was possible to enhance awareness and practical knowledge among healthcare professionals and policymakers. These initiatives represent significant steps toward advancing PCC in Chile, although continued efforts are needed to address remaining challenges and sustain momentum in policy and practice. © 2025. The Author(s).