ATTENTION Seasonal Visitor Guidelines Now in Effect View Guidelines
« Patients & Guests

Patient & Family Engagement Council

At HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital Highland, we believe the best health care happens when patients and families have a seat at the table. The Patient & Family Engagement Council brings community members and hospital leaders together to make our care better for everyone.

Apply Now
african american woman speaking to another person african american woman speaking to another person

About the Council

The Patient & Family Engagement Council (PFEC) is a collaborative group of community members, patients, former patients and hospital leaders who work together to improve the care experience at HSHS St. Joseph’s.

Council members share their perspectives and recommendations directly with hospital leadership, helping to shape programs, processes and initiatives that reflect the real needs of our community.

What the Council Does

  • Council members play an active role in the future of our hospital by:
  • Sharing community feedback to improve care systems, safety, and efficiency
  • Collaborating with hospital leaders on new programs and initiatives
  • Offering ideas to strengthen the relationship between the hospital and the community
  • Helping promote health care services through networking and advocacy
  • Serving on focused subcommittees when needed

Council Membership

The council is made up of 60% community members and 40% hospital leaders, keeping the patient and family voice at the center of every conversation.
Formal membership roles include:
  • Chairperson (community member)
  • Co-Chairperson (hospital leader)
  • Nurse managers and clinical leaders
  • Council secretary
  • 5 to 10 current or former patients and/or family members


Term Lengths
Members in formal roles serve two, two-year terms. Chairpersons serve one, two-year term.

Terms may be extended if the council has open seats.

Not ready to commit to a formal role? There’s still a place for you.

The council maintains an informal pool of former patients and family members who are invited to participate in specific projects, process improvement efforts or construction and program planning initiatives.

Participants in this group can be suggested by council members, colleagues, physicians, or hospital leadership.

How the Council Works

Meetings are held every other month.

Council recommendations are shared with appropriate hospital departments through the Executive Director of Patient Experience. Updates are also provided at hospital board meetings through the Executive Sponsor.

Confidentiality

All information shared within the council is strictly confidential, consistent with state and federal regulations. The privacy of patients and health care professionals is protected throughout all council activities.

woman filling out paperwork on clipboard

Ready to Make a Difference?

Your experience matters. 

Whether you’ve been a patient, a caregiver, or a community member, your perspective can help us build a better hospital for everyone.

Download Application