Former patients help to shape policy and direction at Burlington hospital

When former patients have something to say, Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH) listens.

In the past year alone, JBH reports that 50 design and improvement initiatives at the hospital, all influenced by former patients or their family members, have been implemented at the facility.

The input was provided through those on the Patient Family Advisory (PFA) Team and now new members are being recruited.

PFAs volunteer their experience and feedback to work with JBH leaders and staff to ensure the perspectives of patients, families, and caregivers are considered and integrated into hospital service and quality improvement initiatives.

By actively involving patients and their families, JBH believes it will better serve the community by understanding unique experiences and identifying opportunities for improvement.

“Being a PFA allows you to represent patients and families, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met,” said Hanadi Almasri, PFA and member of the Patient Family Advisory Council (PFAC). “Working alongside healthcare professionals and other committee members fosters a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued and considered to enhance inclusion within healthcare settings.”

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Some of the changes that have occurred due to PFA involvement include the visitation policy, new inpatient food services vendor selection, hospital accessibility, and initiatives involving diversity, equity and inclusion.

“This role gives you the opportunity to influence healthcare policies and practices, ensuring they are patient-centred and family-friendly,” said Almasri. “The input you share can lead to tangible improvements in the quality of care provided, and your experiences will influence positive changes. You will feel so proud of the achievements you see.”

The hospital encourages those in underserved and underrepresented communities to bring their perspectives to healthcare by joining the PFA team.

Learn more about this role and apply here: josephbranthospital.ca/pfac