Patient and Family Advisory Council at Saint Anne's Hospital

Saint Anne’s 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. 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, quality improvement, and patient education on safety and quality.

Who Participates in a PFAC?

Saint Anne’s 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.
• Transformation of the hospital culture toward patient-family centered care.
• Improved patient satisfaction.

How Can Someone Become a Saint Anne’s Hospital PFAC Member?

The council welcomes current or former Saint Anne’s Hospital patients or family members of a current or former patient. There are not any special qualifications to join; we welcome all new members. Saint Anne’s Hospital’s PFAC meets monthly to provide updates and discuss issues of importance to patients and their families to hospital leadership.

To learn more about become a PFAC member, contact Patricia McLaughlin, MS CCC, at 508-674-5600, ext. 2123, or at [email protected].