Patient and Family Advisory Council

Core Values

The Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) is based on the principles of Patient-and Family-Centered Care*, which is an approach to the planning, delivery and evaluation of health care that is grounded in mutually beneficial partnerships among patients, families and health care providers. It is founded on the understanding that the family plays a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of patients of all ages.

In Patient- and Family-Centered Care, patients and families define their "family" and determine how they will participate in care and decision-making. Patient- and Family-Centered Care is guided by these four principles:

Dignity & Respect

Health care providers listen to and honor patient and family perspectives and choices. Patient and family knowledge, values, beliefs and cultural backgrounds are incorporated into care planning and decision making.

Information Sharing

Health care providers communicate and share complete and unbiased information with patients and families in ways that are affirming and useful. Patients and families receive timely, complete and accurate information in order to effectively participate in care and decision making.

Participation

Patients and families are encouraged and supported in participating in care and decision making at the level they choose.

Collaboration

Patients, families and providers collaborate in policy and program development, implementation and assessment; in health care facility design; and in professional education, as well as in the delivery of care.

*Reprinted with the permission of the Institute for Family-Centered Care. To find out more about the Institute for Family Centered Care, please visit www.familycenteredcare.org.

Meeting Schedule

The Patient and Family Advisory Council meets on the second Wednesday of each month. While the council is facilitated by Temple University Hospital – Main Campus patients and family members, staff advisors are present at each meeting and available between meetings.

For More Information About PFAC

Interested in becoming a Patient/Family Advisor at Temple University Hospital? Call Guest Relations at 215-707-5479 for more information.