What does it take to be a Patient Family Caregiver Council collaborator to assist in co-design of healthcare programs and services?
When considering whether or not to become Patient Family Caregiver Council collaborator, it may help you to think about the following attitudes and strengths that you bring to the role:
Ask Yourself…
Personal Strengths
Do I believe that the patient& family perspective is as important as providers?
Do I believe that I bring a valuable perspective to the relationship with providers?
Supporting Others
Am I willing to share my experience as a patient or family member?
Am I nonjudgmental and accepting of others?
Am I coping well with my own feelings and emotional issues?
Can I recognize the needs and feelings of others?
Working with Others
Am I willing to get involved with other people for a common goal?
Can I handle confidential information without sharing it with others?
Can I listen as well as contribute?
Can I work without expecting praise and recognition?
Can I challenge my assumptions?
Working Collaboratively
Do I treat each provider as an individual and avoid letting past negative experiences or negative attitudes affect me?
Am I able to deal with conflict and disappointment constructively?
When I have experience to share do speak up?
Do I have realistic expectations for myself and others?
The most successful collaborators are able to say yes to most of these questions!
A Few Other Considerations…
- I understand the project and I am interested in it.
- I understand and am comfortable with what is expected of me
- I am able to make the expected time commitment
- The time and location work for me
- I have a process in place to send and receive necessary information
- I believe my input will make a difference
- I am comfortable that I will get the support I need to be successful
- I am comfortable with how I will be reimbursed for my out of pocket costs
- My involvement will make a difference to me, my family and the people I know
- My participation will have an impact on the way services are planned & delivered for OHT patients & families
- This is worth my time
If you feel this role is right for you, or you have further questions or comments, email us: info@nipissingwellness.ca