Patient and Family Advisory Council
The Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) partners with community members, patients and families to guide the health care team on ways to improve the patient and family experience. Through their unique perspectives, our advisers help ensure that every patient who comes to our facilities receives high-quality care.
Advisors provide:
- Insights about our strengths and areas where change may be needed.
- Feedback on practices and policies that patients and families find meaningful and useful in helping them be active partners in their care.
- Timely feedback and a fuller picture of the care experience than standard surveys can provide.
- Assistance with projects and initiatives focused on quality and service.
- Input on experiences, and their philosophies and ideas for improvement.
Join the council:
- Do you want to help create a positive change at UP Health System – Marquette?
- Can you commit to volunteering 2–4 hours each month?
- Can you commit to serving on the PFAB for 1–2 years?
- Are you willing to be an ambassador in the community for UP Health System – Marquette?
Apply Now
If you answered yes to the above questions, then you may be a good fit. Click the button below to submit your application. Successful PFAB applicants must attend hospital orientation and submit to the same pre-employment screening as our employees and volunteers. If you have any questions, contact Michelle Augustyn, Patient Experience Officer, at michelle.augustyn@lifepointhealth.net.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the time commitment?
Most members commit 2–3 hours per month between a monthly meeting, attendance at special committees, and special projects. The Council Chair generally commits to 2–6 hours per month, as this position has additional duties such as setting agendas and working with our leadership team. Terms range from 2–3 years. The PFAB meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 12:30 pm.
What is the onboarding process?
Successful applicants will onboard through the same process as our volunteers. This process includes, but is not limited to:
- Pass a background check and drug screen.
- Pass a tuberculosis (TB) skin test administered through our Employee Health department.
- Present proof of influenza vaccination annually (the hospital typically offers a free flu vaccine to our volunteers) and proof of COVID vaccination.
What is the council chair responsible for?
The council chair sets agendas, runs meetings and works closely with the UP Health System – Marquette leadership team. Optimally, the council chair has experience running meetings, excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively as a team leader.
What is a council member responsible for?
A council member attends monthly meetings, is willing to share their experience with the intent of improving service, may participate in special committees focused on service and quality, and may engage in activities that help determine the quality of services.
Council members participate in purposeful discussions surrounding patient experience opportunities presented to the PFAC for feedback. They may also share their own suggestions for improvement.
The PFAC does not explore operational aspects of the hospital such as finance and contract labor. Data and updates regarding patient quality, safety and experience are presented to the PFAC regularly. One council member also serves on the Patient Safety and Clinical Quality Committee.