Patient Involvement
Patient Advisory Council
MEMBERSHIP
At a minimum, the PAC consists of at least 15 patient members, and one individual must be a family member or caregiver directly related to an ESRD patient. In addition to patients and caregivers, there are also facility staff on the committee. Membership reflects the Network service area and various treatment modalities.
PURPOSE
The purpose of the PAC is to serve as a voice for kidney patients throughout Network 8. The committee is goal and task oriented. The PAC assists with developing Quality Improvement Activities (QIAs) and educational materials that promote patient centered care and patient engagement. These members provide feedback to the Network and CMS, and help disseminate information to patients at a local level.
GOALS
- Identify the needs of renal patients
- Provide input into the development of QIAs
- Assist with the development of patient and staff educational materials
EXPECTATIONS
- Attend meetings which are scheduled quarterly
- Provide a patient perspective to assist with Network projects as needed
Facility Patient Representatives (FPR)
Each facility is asked to name one patient to serve as an FPR.
FPRs may be asked to:
- Participate in patient focus groups for Network 8
- Act as a mentor to other patients
- Introduce patients to Network activities and publications
- Help patients understand their rights and responsibilities
- Help distribute the patient newsletter
- Suggest topics for patient meetings