Program Interests/Philosophy
The Center seeks to strengthen the relationship between patients and caregivers through education, training and support, and public education. Research is funded in limited circumstances only. The Center supports initiatives that promise both immediate and long-term improvements to the patient-caregiver relationship. It also favors initiatives which, assuming they are successful, can be used as models by other health care organizations.

For example, the Center seeks to support efforts which:

	Help health care professionals relate to patients and families more compassionately
	Help patients and providers communicate more effectively with one another
	Create opportunities for caregivers to give and receive support from one another
	Provide opportunities for patients and health professionals to describe their experiences with the health care system and give voice to the patient experience
	Increase understanding of how patients define empathic care

In addition to funding groups and organizations, the Center itself initiates programs, such as the Schwartz Center Rounds, to meet its specific goals and objectives. Organizations interested in starting Schwartz Center Rounds do not need to submit a formal grant application. The Schwartz Center will provide detailed instructions on how to start Rounds on a one-on-one basis. For more information, contact Pamela Mann, Assistant Director of Programs at 617-724-9145.

Eligibility
Any health-related organization is eligible to apply for a grant, including hospitals, health centers, physician practices, hospices, long-term care providers, and health-related educational institutions. Not-for-profit entities or organizations are preferred. Individuals are also eligible to apply. The Schwartz Center generally will not pay for permanent salaries but grant dollars can be used to pay for a portion of an employee's time. The Center does not pay for overhead expenses.

Grant Range
Grants can be as much as $20,000 per year, although the average grant is in the $10,000 range.

Geographic Focus
Strong preference for programs in the Northeast. Funding will not be given for programs or to caregivers who practice outside the United States.

An Important Note
The above information is intended to give guidelines and preferences only. The Schwartz Center may consider, subject to Board review, proposals that do not meet all of these guidelines.