Massachusetts Regulations Related to Patient and Family Advisory Councils (PFACs)

In accordance with Massachusetts 105 CMR 130.1800 (Patient and Family Advisory Council) Saints Medical Center will develop and implement a Patient and Family Advisory Council to begin Oct 1, 2010. Please follow this link to our 2009-2010 workplan. 

What is Patient and Family Centered Health care?

Patient and Family Centered Care is an innovative approach to the planning, delivery, and evaluation of health care that is grounded in mutually beneficial partnerships among health care patients, families, and providers. Patient and Family Centered Care applies to patients of all ages, and it may be practiced in any health care setting.

What are the core concepts of Patient and Family Centered Care?

 Dignity and Respect. Health care practitioners listen to and honor patient and family perspectives and choices. Patient and family knowledge, values, beliefs and cultural backgrounds are incorporated into the planning and delivery of care.

 Information Sharing. Health care practitioners communicate and share complete and unbiased information with patients and families in ways that are affirming and useful. Patients and families receive timely, complete, and accurate information in order to effectively participate in care and decision-making.

 Participation. Patients and families are encouraged and supported in participating in care and decision-making at the level they choose.

 Collaboration. Patients and families are also included on an institution-wide basis. Health care leaders collaborate with patients and families in policy and program development, implementation, and evaluation; in health care facility design; and in professional education, as well as in the delivery of care.