Exploring the concept of “caring cultures”: A critical examination of the conceptual, methodological and validity issues with the “caring cultures” construct

Aims and objectives: To critically examine the conceptual, methodological and validity issues with the “caring cultures” construct. Background: Post the Francis Report, “caring cultures” and alternative terminology such as “culture/s of care/caring/compassionate care” have gained prominence in the literature, especially within a UK policy context. However, in order to understand the value these “caring cultures” hold in terms of clinical practice, the concept itself first needs to be understood. Design: A discussion and critical examination of the concept of “caring cultures” and associated terminology. Methods: Grey literature, database, library and reference list searches were conducted. Results: It is implied that “caring cultures” influence patient care. However, evidence which verifies this assertion is limited. In this article, the concept of “caring cultures” is deconstructed and its validity explored. An alternative to “caring cultures” is proposed in terms of research, whereby the concept of culture is instead explored in detail, on a microsystem level, using appropriate methodology. Conclusion: The concept of “caring cultures”, although attractive in terms of its apparent simplicity, is not considered the most useful nor appropriate phrases in terms of advancing research. Instead, research which examines the established concept of “culture” in relation to outcomes such as patient care, doing so with an appropriate methodology, is viewed as a more suitable alternative. Relevance to clinical practice: Clarifying concepts and terminology relating to “caring cultures” is essential for research to progress and the impact of culture on clinical practice to be better understood.