VR-CoDES and patient-centeredness: the intersection points between a measure and a concept

Objective The Verona Coding Definitions of Emotional sequences (VR-CoDES) system has been applied in a wide range of studies, in some of these, because of its attention on healthcare provider’s ability to respond to patient emotions, it has been used as a proxy of patient-centeredness. The paper aims to discuss how the VR-CoDES can contribute to the broader concept of patient-centeredness and its limitations. Methods VR-CoDES and patient-centeredness concept are briefly described, trying to detect commonalities and distinctions. The VR-CoDES dimensions of Explicit/non explicit responding and Providing or Reducing Space are critically analysed in relation to relevant aspects of patient-centred communication. Results Emotional aspects are encompassed within patient-centeredness model, but they represent only one of the numerous dimensions that contribute to define patient-centeredness as well as Explicit/non explicit responding and Providing or Reducing Space serve different functions during communication. Conclusion The VR-CoDES may contribute to operationalize the description of emotional aspects emerging in a consultation, by inducing coders to adopt a factual attitude in assessing how health providers react to patient’s expression of emotions. Practice Implications To better define empirically which affective aspects and dimensions of health provider responses are relevant and may contribute to patient-centeredness in different clinical settings.