The Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH) is pleased to share that, in collaboration with its Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC), a revised Patient Rights and Responsibilities document has been developed, placing the patient and family voice at its core.

 

PFAC members played a central role in developing the content and overall approach to the refresh of the Patient Rights and Responsibilities, ensuring that it clearly reflects the needs, expectations, and real-life experiences of patients and families. Drawing on their lived experience, PFAC members helped transform the document into one that speaks directly to those receiving care - making it more accessible, practical, and easy to understand.

 

“The Patient and Family Advisory Council acts in an advisory capacity, making recommendations that enhance the experience of patients and their families based on their needs,” said PFAC Co-Chair Wendy Lewis. “Not only was our input on the content of this document provided from a patient and family perspective, but we also gave feedback on how and where it should be shared throughout the hospital in order for it to have the greatest impact.”

 

PRH President and CEO Sabine Mersmann shared that PFAC’s leadership and involvement in this project reflects its broader role within the organization. “As this project demonstrates, their input strengthens both the clarity of information and the overall quality of care experiences for patients and families, while ensuring that patient perspectives are consistently integrated into hospital planning, communication, and care design.”

 

PFAC Co-Chair Brent McIntyre, who is also the hospital’s Vice-President of People, Quality and Mental Health Services, noted that the refreshed document is grounded in clear expectation, mutual respect and partnership between patients, families and staff, while “strengthening our shared commitment to respectful, person-centred care”.

 

The updated Patient Rights and Responsibilities outlines what patients can expect under the pillars of compassion, collaboration, commitment, and courage, while also highlighting the important role patients and families play in their own care. It serves as a reminder that high-quality care is built through partnership and shared understanding.

 

The refreshed document will be prominently displayed in the hospital, making it easy for patients, families, and visitors to understand what they can expect and how they can actively participate in their care.

 

Originally introduced in 2011, the Patient Rights and Responsibilities has evolved over time and aligns with PRH’s Strategic Plan. The latest refresh - led by PFAC - also supports the principles of Ontario’s Excellent Care for All Act, which emphasizes the importance of incorporating patient perspectives into healthcare delivery.

 

By grounding this work in patient voice, PRH continues to demonstrate its commitment to listening, learning, and delivering care that is truly centred on the people it serves.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Carolyn Levesque, Public Affairs and Communications Coordinator

Pembroke Regional Hospital

(613) 732-3675, extension 6165 / carolyn.levesque@prh.ca