When it comes to improving health care, some of the most valuable insights come from the people who experience the system firsthand.
When it comes to improving health care, some of the most valuable insights come from the people who experience the system firsthand.
The Muskoka Almaguin Ontario Health Team’s (MAOHT) Patient, Family and Caregiver Partner Advisory Committee (PFCPAC) brings those voices to the table, giving patients, family members and caregivers an opportunity to share their experiences and help shape health care and social services across the region.
Helping lead the committee are co-chairs Diane Lloyd and Jim Lawrie, two community members who bring different experiences and perspectives, but share a commitment to making local health care more patient-centred, accessible and inclusive.
Turning Experience into Action
Diane first learned about the PFCPAC through a newspaper ad inviting community members to “Have a Say in Health Care.” Having experienced the health care system as a patient, caregiver and senior, and with a professional background in health care and years of involvement with accessibility committees, she saw an opportunity to contribute.
Since joining, Diane has brought the patient and community perspective to several MAOHT programs and initiatives, including the Heart Function Clinic, Hospital to Home, Surgical Transitions and the Alternate Level of Care Steering Committee.
“Being part of the Committee has given me an opportunity to share my experiences and contribute to conversations about health care in our community,” says Diane. “I would certainly encourage others to consider applying and taking the opportunity to ‘Have Your Say’ in shaping local health care.”
For Jim, joining the PFCPAC was another way to give back to his community. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1990, his own experiences navigating the health care system helped shape his interest in accessibility, inclusion and ensuring patients and families are heard.
After moving to Bracebridge in 2021, Jim became involved with the Auxiliary to South Muskoka Memorial Hospital, where he met Diane and learned about the MAOHT’s PFCPAC.
“I am particularly passionate about equity and inclusion and ensuring that the experiences and perspectives of all residents are considered as we work toward creating a more patient-centred health care system,” says Jim.
Lived Experience Makes Health Care Better
Diane and Jim are two members of a diverse group of patients, family members and caregivers who contribute their time, knowledge and perspectives to the PFCPAC.
Members collaborate with health care providers, community organizations and other partners, provide feedback on programs and services, and participate in working groups and task forces across the MAOHT.
While every member comes to the table with different experiences, they share an important goal: helping create a health care system that better reflects the needs of the people and communities it serves.
To learn more about the MAOHT’s Patient, Family and Caregiver Partner Advisory Committee and how to get involved, please visit https://maoht.ca/pfcpac.
Your experience matters. Your perspective can make a difference. Have your say in shaping local health care.