What type of support is categorized under “Involvement of Friends and Family” in the Picker survey?

The categorization of "Involvement of Friends and Family" in the Picker survey aligns closely with the concept of social support. Social support encompasses the various ways that friends and family can provide assistance and care, which can significantly influence a patient's experience during healthcare interactions.

In this context, social support includes the emotional, informational, and practical assistance provided by loved ones. When friends and family are involved, they can offer encouragement, companionship, and participation in decision-making processes regarding the patient’s care. This sense of involvement can enhance the patient’s overall experience, making them feel more supported and valued. Therefore, identifying this as social support accurately reflects the broader role that friends and family play in contributing to a patient's well-being and health outcomes.

While emotional support, informational support, and physical comfort are also vital components of patient experience, they do not fully encapsulate the overall involvement of friends and family as social support does. Social support serves as a more encompassing term that reflects their collective contributions to the patient's care and emotional health.