Advisors are patient and family volunteers who partner with UAMS care providers and staff to enhance quality and safety and improve the healthcare experience for everyone. This partnership fosters the philosophy of patient and family centered care that is central to our services at UAMS.
As part of a continuing process to include patients and families in everything from updating patient guides to giving feedback on signage at a new clinic, UAMS has advisory councils both on the main campus and at clinics across the state. These councils cover many areas, including inpatient units, procedural areas, neonatal intensive care, Family and Preventive Medicine clinics, and other outpatient and regional program clinics.
Who Can Be an Advisor?
Any patient who has received or is currently receiving care at UAMS may serve as an Advisor. Family members also may be Advisors if their loved ones have received or are currently receiving care at UAMS.
Is Being an Advisor Right for You?
You might be a great fit if you feel comfortable:
- Speaking up and sharing suggestions/solutions to improve the place where you or your family get your care
- Sharing both positive and negative care experiences as a patient or family member
- Listening to and thinking about what others say, even when you may disagree
- Working with many different kinds of people with different types of roles and backgrounds
How do Advisors Partner with Staff?
Most Patient and Family Advisory Councils meet monthly either in-person or virtually. Examples of discussions and activities Advisors participate in include:
- Giving feedback on the MyChart patient portal
- Reviewing policies and processes
- Evaluating the design and layout of new buildings
- Secret shopping in various departments across campus
- Serving on committees and work groups
- Updating guidelines and educational materials
If you are interested in becoming an Advisor, please click here to complete an application.