The Patient and Family Advisory Council is a volunteer group representing patients and families served by Stephens Memorial Hospital (SMH).
The council is comprised of local community members and caregivers engaged and committed to continuous improvement of patient and family experiences.
An active PFAC is an important part of our participation in accreditation organizations such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and its Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition program, focused on the principles of the right care, in the right amount, at the right time.
Become a PFAC Member
Are you interested in becoming a member of the Patient & Family Advisory Council? Complete our online application today.
Mission
The Patient Family Advisory Council is dedicated to cultivating partnerships between patients and their family members, caregivers, and administration, with an emphasis on patient safety and family-centered care.
Through contributions to hospital planning, procedures and policies, the PFAC serves as the voice of patients and families who are committed to working together to improve patient and family experiences.
At Stephens Memorial Hospital, our PFAC is accountable to:
- Improve overall patient experience
- Increase hospital recommendation
- Build a partnership with patients and families
- Serve as an advisory resource to the hospital, physician practices, and/or other affiliated programs
- Review and discuss quality improvement reports and ongoing efforts to improve healthcare practices and outcomes
- Create awareness of the PFAC’s role in the community and to encourage broad participation
- Understand, provide feedback on, and/ or establish action steps for goals set by MaineHealth and/or SMH that impact patient care
Candidates are referred by Volunteer Services, PFAC members, hospital staff, board and administration. Likewise, candidates may seek out membership independently. Candidates are current or former patients and family members or individuals who bring unique or specific skills to the council.
Members are expected to attend a majority of meetings per year. Meetings take place on the third Thursday of each month from 10 - 11:30 am in person or virtually, as circumstances permit.