Hoitosuhteen

Hoitosuhteen, or the care relationship, is the professional relationship formed between a caregiver and a care recipient within Finnish health and social care settings. The term combines hoito ("care") and suhde ("relationship"), and in Finnish discourse it denotes the ongoing, ethically governed interaction that supports the recipient's wellbeing, safety, and participation in care decisions.

Key features include a person-centered focus, trust and mutual respect, clear boundaries, confidentiality, continuity of care, informed consent, and reflective practice by the caregiver. The relationship is fostered through effective communication, cultural competence, and a collaborative approach to goal setting and problem solving.

Contexts and impact: hoitosuhteen is central to home care, nursing homes, hospitals, and social services, including services for people with disabilities or mental health needs. Its quality influences adherence to care plans, user satisfaction, and health outcomes, and is reinforced by professional standards, supervision, and ongoing training.

Challenges: maintaining appropriate boundaries, avoiding dependency or burnout, managing power dynamics, and addressing ethical dilemmas around autonomy and protection. Safeguarding, trauma-informed care principles, and informed consent are emphasized in policy guidance.

See also: person-centered care, therapeutic relationship, continuity of care, caregiver professionalism.