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 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

Committee members receive an orientation in a number of areas. Orientation includes introduction to the mission and values of the Children's Medical Center and the principles of family-centered care. In practical terms, family members receive reimbursement for parking in the visitor's garage, as well as a light dinner at meetings. The training, support and administrative oversight of this program will come through the Department of Pediatrics and Child Life Program.