Patient and Family Engagement Community

Patient Advisory Council

Empowering Patients to Shape Their Care Experience

The Patient Advisory Council at Cincinnati Children's gives patients a voice in the decisions that affect how they receive care. Patients and former patients, ages 12–21, are invited to serve. The council meets monthly from September to June to share the patient perspective and identify ways to make Cincinnati Children's a better place for the children we serve.

Accomplishments

The Patient Advisory Council has worked as a team to:

• Share about “The Patient’s Experience” at the Resident Noon Conference.
• Partnered with Food Services to enhance the inpatient dining experience by emphasizing nutrition, incorporating elements of 'Fun in Food,' and fostering comfort throughout the overall experience.
• Provide and promote support for staff through the Happy Hotline.
• Recommend healthy food options in the clinic setting.
• Participate in the Patient and Family Experience Strategic Plan Co-Design Sessions.
• Serve as judges for Patient and Family Experience Week.

Patient Advisory Council FAQ's

We believe that the best way to care for children is to make patients part of the healthcare team. Families and patients can help our professionals improve the way we provide care for our patients by participating in an advisory council.

Who can join the councils?

Current and former patients 12-21 years of age. An onboarding process is required with the council lead prior to joining.

What are the duties of council members?

Council members attend meetings regularly and provide feedback from their own personal experience. Many of our patients are also able to represent the perspective of others across their communities who have their own unique experiences. 

How frequently do the councils meet?

The Patient Advisory Council meets monthly, except during July and August

When are the meetings?

The Patient Advisory Council meets on the 3^rd Thursday of each month from 6pm-8pm in-person, but a virtual option is available.

What is the meeting structure for the councils?

We ask our staff to come to meetings with questions for council members, not just presentations. The goal is to facilitate a two-way discussion. Staff members may bring a few slides with essential background information and their questions.

What is your leadership structure?

The Patient Advisory Council is led by a patient co-chair who is supported by members of the Engagement Specialist team. The council leadership includes staff from Shared Governance, Patient Family Experience, and a Child Life Specialist.

What kind of outcomes have the councils had?

The Patient Advisory Council (PAC) partnered with Food Services to improve inpatient dining experience by providing input for menu design, ordering process, food preparation, tray design and delivery experience. The PAC also records messages for the Happy Hotline which staff can call when they are in need of a pep talk or pick-me-up.