Family Advisory Committee

The Children's Medical Center FAC is comprised of committed families and professionals whose main focus is to promote family-centered care. At the heart of family-centered care is the belief that health care providers and family members are partners, working together to best meet the needs of the child. The FAC empowers families and gives them a voice in the decisions that affect patient care and family experiences.

The FAC's primary purpose is to serve in an advisory role to the Children's Medical Center administration, staff and Advisory Council, sharing insights and recommendations from family members' perspectives. Some members may serve on other hospital committees lending their insight and energy to various team projects. This partnership provides valuable patient/family input and support during planning phases and when implementing changes. Families have an important role in guiding our work, the hospital's priorities and planning.

The main goal is to constantly improve understanding and communication between hospital staff and the families they serve. Our hope in improving this communication is that we will recognize and maintain best practices, initiate positive change when needed and meet the challenges facing health care today. Some of our other goals are to:

• Actively help implement approved changes at the Children's Medical Center
• Bring the needs of the community to the attention of Medical Center staff
• Promote a better understanding of hospital policies and services
• Provide a "forum" where parents and other family members can express their thoughts and opinions
• Serve as a contact for groups and committees within the hospital that are trying to make a positive difference in the care they provide to children and families

The FAC is always looking for new members. A selection committee that includes parents and staff affiliated with the Children's Medical Center reviews all applications. Parents or relatives whose children have received care at the hospital or one of the outpatient clinics in the past year are eligible for membership. To learn more about the FAC, contact cmcfac@umassmemorial.org.