Schwartz Rounds sessions always open with stories from three or four panelists who speak briefly — for just three to five minutes — about what it felt like for them to care for a given patient or family. Their stories are followed by a facilitated discussion that invites everyone to reflect on what they heard from the panelists, to consider how it resonates with their own experiences, and to share those experiences — if they wish — with those present. Schwartz Rounds are:

• Hourlong sessions offered at a flexible interval, typically monthly or bimonthly, but sometimes more frequently depending on the needs of your organization
• In-person or virtual
• Organization-wide or unit-based
• Case- or topic-based
• Open to and inclusive of all caregivers and their experiences
• Confidential

Sometimes it is easier to describe Schwartz Rounds by comparing what Schwartz Rounds are with what Schwartz Rounds are not. Schwartz Rounds focus on what it feels like for the caregiver to provide care to patients and families, not on clarifying or revisiting medical decision-making, developing care plans, or solving problems. Schwartz Rounds might feel therapeutic, but they are not therapy.

Schwartz Rounds provide an opportunity to consider and to share with one another what matters to healthcare workers most in the work that they do.