In primary care practices, hospitals, and health care systems across the country and in many countries around the world, patients and families are being asked to serve as advisors and leaders with physicians and staff in improving and redesigning health care. Patients and families hold a unique perspective of the care and can share this knowledge with providers to improve care quality and safety.
In many primary care practices, patients and families not only serve as advisors but they also provide education and support to other patients and families. Health care providers find that selecting, preparing, and providing ongoing support of patients and families for these new roles are important for success.
Patients and families report a variety of benefits to serving as an advisor in health care.
- Improves care for others.
- Provides a way to bring about meaningful change to health care.
- Increases opportunities to share information with other patients and families.
- Feels good to contribute.
- Offers connections and friendships with other patients and families as well as physicians and staff.
- Expands knowledge and skills.
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How do you know if you would make a good patient or family advisor? Read more.