What Is PFAC?
The Patient & Family Advisory Council (PFAC) is a partnership between community members and Ridgecrest Regional Hospital. Patients, family members, caregivers, and RRH staff work together to share experiences, provide feedback, and identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, and the overall patient experience.
You don't need healthcare experience or special training to participate — your perspective as a patient or family member is what matters most. By sharing what worked well and what could have been better, you help shape care for current and future patients throughout our community.
Our PFAC currently includes patients, family members, caregivers, and staff who are committed to helping RRH deliver the best possible care experience.
Understanding PFAC
What It Is vs. What It Is Not
| ✓ What It Is | ✗ What It Is Not |
|---|---|
| A collaborative partnership between patients, families, and hospital staff | A complaint or grievance forum |
| A space to share experiences to improve care for all patients | A place to resolve individual or personal medical issues |
| A group that provides constructive feedback on hospital policies and services | A setting to report urgent concerns or service failures |
| Focused on system-level improvements and long-term impact | Focused on one-time incidents or personal situations |
| A voice that helps shape patient-centered care | A decision-making or governing body |
| A respectful, solution-oriented environment | A space for venting without direction |
| A forum to improve communication, safety, and patient experience | A replacement for Patient Relations or formal complaint processes |
| A collaborative group working with hospital leadership | An independent or advocacy group outside the hospital |
| A confidential and respectful setting | A public platform for sharing personal health information |
| A place to offer ideas and recommendations | A place to seek personal medical advice |
Why It Matters
Your perspective drives real change.
Every patient and family member experiences healthcare differently. Whether you have ideas for improving communication, making processes easier to navigate, or enhancing the patient experience, your feedback can help create meaningful change.
PFAC provides a respectful and collaborative environment where community members and healthcare professionals work together to identify opportunities for improvement. The insights shared by advisors help RRH better understand the needs of the people we serve and strengthen the care experience for everyone.
Getting Involved
Open to everyone in our community.
Who Can Join?
There are no special qualifications required. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are willing to work collaboratively to improve healthcare. Training and support are provided. A PFAC advisor is someone who can thoughtfully share their experiences, collaborate with diverse perspectives, and respect confidentiality.
What's the Commitment?
Advisors typically volunteer between one and four hours per month. Opportunities include council participation, project-based work, focus groups, or reviewing materials like forms and discharge instructions. Participation can be short-term or long-term, depending on your interests and availability.
Our Mission
The mission of the Patient & Family Advisory Council is to create positive change within our healthcare system by fostering an environment where patients and family members feel safe, respected, informed, and empowered to be active partners in their care.
Get Involved
Your experience can help others.
Fill out the application and download the information brochure below to learn more about becoming a PFAC advisor. If you have questions, we'd love to hear from you.
Together, we can help ensure every patient and family receives compassionate, patient-centered care at Ridgecrest Regional Hospital.
