BENEFITS OF A PATIENT AND FAMILY ADVISORY COUNCIL

For the Healthcare Organizations:

Provide an effective mechanism for receiving and responding to consumer input.
Result in more efficient planning to ensure that services really meet consumer needs and priorities.
Lead to increased understanding and cooperation between patients, families and staff.
Promote respectful, effective partnerships between patients, families and clinicians.
Transform the culture toward patient-centered care.
Develop programs and policies that are relevant to patient’s and families’ needs.
Strengthen community relations.
Recognize that collaboration with their providers through patient-centered care leads to better self-management of chronic conditions and improved adherence to medication regimens.

For Patients and Families:

Gain a better understanding of the healthcare system.
Appreciate being listened to and having their opinions valued.
Become advocates for the patient and family-centered healthcare in their community.
Understand how to become an active participant in their own healthcare.
Develop close relationships with other members on the council.
Provide an opportunity to learn new skills (facilitating groups, listening skills, telling their story).

	Created by Lydia Elliott, Ed.D almost 8 years ago

Action Recommendation: Identify and describe proven and emerging practices linked to patient experience and service excellence outcomes