Volunteer to Share Your Experience and Help Make a Difference in Patient Care
Since its official launch in 2012, Kaiser Permanente Redwood City and South San Francisco Medical Centers’ Patient Advisory Council (PAC) has grown from an idea to a highly active group of members who help make a difference in the patient experience for all Kaiser Permanente members and their families. Currently, the PAC has 17 Patient Partners. We are excited to expand the program so we can make an even greater impact. The goal for our PAC is to represent the diversity of the communities we serve in San Mateo County.
Our PAC plays an important role by sharing the experiences and insights of our members to help shape our programs. In addition to monthly PAC meetings, Patient Partners also have opportunities to participate in medical center committees, focus groups, and a wide variety of projects with Kaiser Permanente staff and physicians. Read the full article and apply to volunteer on the PAC.
“The goal is to provide a great experience by listening to the perspectives of our members.” said Rebecca Skiles, Program Manager for Person and Family Centered Care, who is co-chair of the Patient Advisory Council.
Who becomes a Patient Partner? Perhaps you! Think back to the last time you or a family member received care. How was the experience? Becoming a Patient Partner and serving on the Patient Advisory Council is an opportunity to share what is working well, and where there are opportunities to improve. The PAC takes a positive and practical approach to brainstorming ideas and coming up with creative solutions.
“The PAC’s establishment has been key to bringing the patient voice into our operations and improvements over the past several years.” “We have been pleased with the success of the program and the ways in which our staff and physicians have interacted with our patient partners.” “Our PAC members’ commitment to improving the overall experience and bringing the community voice into our work has been invaluable.” said Daniel Kwak, Medical Group Administrator at the South San Francisco Medical Center.
Cathy Fragola has served as a Patient Partner at the Redwood City Medical Center over the past eight years and is currently co-chair of the Patient Advisory Council. “As a Patient Partner, I have gained insight into the Kaiser Permanente health care system, and I have had the opportunity to be heard by those providing care.” “I see my involvement as an investment in my own care, and it’s rewarding to know that I am making a difference for all Kaiser Permanente members.” said Fragola.
PAC volunteers need to be members of Kaiser Permanente and receive care in the San Mateo Service Area, which includes our Redwood City and South San Francisco Medical Centers. Patient Partners cannot be employed by Kaiser Permanente and must have two to five hours per month available to volunteer.
“Our Patient Partners share with us what matters most and remind us why we chose careers in health care.” “Our staff and physicians truly value the perspectives and insights they bring to the organization.” said Skiles.
To learn how to apply to become a Patient Partner, please call or email Rebecca Skiles at 650-207-1972 or Rebecca.C.Skiles@kp.org.