Patient and Family Advisory Council

Qualities of a patient and family advisor

A patient and family advisor:

• has been a patient or family member of a patient at Osler
• has a strong interest in enhancing the patient and family experience
• can use personal experience to advance hospital planning and health system strategy
• is open-minded and solution-oriented
• has a positive attitude
• can see beyond their own personal experience to represent others
• is respectful of the opinions of others
• is comfortable speaking in a large group

Advisor opportunities

We are always looking for patient and family advisors for our Patient and Family Advisory Council, as well as program-specific councils. Opportunities include:

Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC)

PFAs provide feedback, share wisdom and help make decisions about organization-wide policies, plans, and new initiatives. Osler's PFAC is co-chaired by a patient experience leader and a PFA. Key elements of the PFAC annual workplan is related to quality excellence, patient safety and our Values. The PFAC reports directly to our Quality Governance Council.

Program-specific PFACs

Program PFAs are called upon when patient/family input is needed to help design and plan a program specific initiative.

Committees

PFAs may join various hospital wide committees, bringing the voice of the patient and family to plans and decisions that affect patient care or related activities. Examples include the Patient Experience Sub-committee, Medical Advisory Committee and clinical senior leadership team.

Quality improvement initiatives and recruitment

Based on their individual skills, knowledge and insights, PFAs will be asked to provide their input into various quality improvement processes and projects. PFAs may also participate in recruiting staff and leaders.

If you would like to partner with us to improve the patient and family experience, we would love to hear from you! Please complete and submit an online application form.

Become an advisor

To become an advisor:

• Complete and submit an online application form
• Complete an interview. This may take place over the phone or in person
• Register as an advisor. This includes signing a confidentiality agreement and completing a Vulnerable Sector Check with your local police services. Osler will reimburse the costs.
• Receive an identification badge.
• Review the Terms of Reference and participate in orientation