“Being part of the PFAC allows me to give back a sliver of what Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre has done for me.”
“The PFAC provides insight and guidance to administration and staff on how to improve the patient and family experience,” explains Riley Crotta, Manager of Regional Cancer Programs. “The Council is comprised of current or former patients and caregivers. We have such a rich dialogue every time we meet.”
PFAC members often share their personal stories of care at Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre, which can lead to deep conversations about ways to enhance services.
“Each member brings such enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge to our meetings,” says PFAC co-chair Jane Payne, who is also a founding member.
Feedback from PFAC played an important role in the construction of the Adult Stem Cell Transplant Unit, which will have a significant positive impact on the care of patients from throughout the region.
“Hearing a diversity of voices and perspectives from the PFAC is truly enlightening,” says Kristi MacKenzie, Director of the Regional Cancer Program. “Receiving feedback about what is being done well and what could be changed is extremely valuable.”
In March, the PFAC aided in guiding and informing plans for virtual care in the face of the exploding COVID-19 crisis. The advancement of virtual care had to happen quickly, and PFAC input helped to ensure that the patient and family perspective was at the forefront of decision-making.
“Being part of the PFAC allows me to give back a sliver of what Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre has done for me,” says PFAC member Lori Rae Tomlinson. “It’s an honour to be a part of the discussion.”