Healthcare reform is moving toward a patient-centered model of care. Effective patient-nurse partnerships are essential in a patient-centered model of care, with the patient assuming a more active empowered role. While many play a vital role in the success of the partnership, including the patient, family, nurse, and healthcare team, this article reviews the patient, the nurse, and the partnership incorporating current evidence and case studies. The intention of this article is not to present a specific model of a successful partnership, but to provoke thought and provide available resources.