We have created a Patient and Family Advisory Council to best serve our community because it's important for us to include patients and their families in decision-making.
Our Patient and Family Advisory Council offers a unique opportunity to cultivate a culture of patient and family-centered care throughout our practices. The patient and their family are at the center of the healthcare delivery system at Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center. The involvement of patient and family advisors (PFAs) enhances communication and improves patient satisfaction through collaborative efforts.
For more information, please refer to the sections below:
The goals of the Council
The goals of the Patient and Family Advisory Council are to:
- Establish a diverse membership.
- Expand the voices of patients and families.
- Identify opportunities for improving the patient and family experience.
- Promote and support culturally sensitive patient and family-centered care.
- Share stories as a patient or family member within the Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center system with providers and other patients.
- Partner with leadership on quality improvement work across the hospital setting.
PFAs partner with the hospital and outpatient clinics to create a patient- and family-centered care environment and experience. Advisors provide the perspective of patients and families across a wide range of Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center initiatives and give direct input on the decisions, policies, and practices that affect the services our patients receive.
What to expect as a PFA
- You can expect to have processes/terminology explained as needed and de-briefing after each meeting if requested.
- You will be listened to and respected for your insight and suggestions.
- You can expect a safe environment to discuss concerns.
- You may be invited to attend educational sessions.
PFA qualifications
You must:
- Be a patient (or family member of a patient) at Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center who has received care within the last 2 years.
- Be able to provide insight and constructive feedback that will help our system improve the quality of care and customer service we provide.
- Be team-oriented, have a positive approach, and have the ability to share and see different points of view.
- Have the ability to share both positive and negative experiences constructively.
- Have good listening skills.
- Be willing to communicate and work with patients, families, council members, and hospital employees whose backgrounds, experiences, and styles may differ from yours.
- Respect, promote, and maintain strict confidentiality at all times.
- Be willing to commit the time and energy to fulfill the responsibilities of membership (that is, attend regular meetings, actively participate, and provide constructive feedback collaboratively).
- Support and promote the principles of patient and family-centered care.
How to apply
If you want to become a Patient and Family Advisor at Mt. Ascutney Hospital, please complete and submit the form below.
Or you may contact us by calling 802-674-7393 or by emailing MAH.PatientRelations@mahhc.org.