Patient and Family Advisory Council
Norwood Hospital’s Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) is the voice of patients and family members in the community who are interested in coming together to provide our health care team with constructive advice and feedback to improve our patients’ experiences. They are dedicated to recognizing community needs and helping to develop new services that best meet the expectations of patients and their families.
What is a PFAC?
PFACs have been required of all Massachusetts hospitals by the Department of Public Health since October 1, 2010. Recognizing the need for such councils, Norwood Hospital established their PFAC many years before it was required. PFACs are based on the core concepts of dignity and respect, information sharing, participation, and collaboration so that patients, families and providers can develop and enhance mutually beneficial partnerships. Patient and family members may advise the hospital on issues such as patient and provider relationships, research, quality improvement, and patient education on safety and quality.
Who participates in a PFAC?
Co-chaired by both a patient/family member and a hospital member, Norwood Hospital’s PFAC consists of representatives from the hospital and current or former patients or family members who represent the community. Together, they can facilitate patient and family participation in hospital care improvement, information sharing, and policy and program development.
What are the benefits of a PFAC to patients, families and hospitals?
Benefits of a Patient and Family Advisory Council are numerous for patients and families, including:
- Increased awareness and understanding of the health care system
- Advocacy for family, friends and the organization
- Active participation in their own helth care and self-management
- Transformation of the hospital culture toward patient-family centered care
- Improved patient and family satisfaction
How can someone become a Norwood Hospital PFAC member?
The council welcomes current or former Norwood Hospital patients or family members of a current or former patient. Members do not need any special qualifications and will receive any training and materials that may be needed. Norwood Hospital's PFAC meets at least four times throughout the year to provide updates, work on projects, and discuss issues of importance to patients and their families with hospital leadership. To learn more about becoming a Patient and Family Advisory Council member, please contact Stuart Walker at stuart.walker@steward.org or 781-278-6311.
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