Patient Involvement

A Patient Partner is someone who has recently received care at NBRHC or supported someone else during their care. They give feedback and share their ideas to help improve the hospital’s programs and services.

A Patient Partner may give feedback on things like a patient information document, share their experiences and perspectives in a small group or take part on a committee.

A  Patient Partner is someone who can:

• speak in a group and work well with others;
• share ideas in ways others can learn;
• bring a positive attitude to discussions;
• respect others and work with people who may be different than them;
• partner with patients and healthcare providers to focus on improving care for others; and
• keep any shared information private and confidential.

When someone fills out an application form to be a Patient Partner, NBRHC keeps their name on a list for up to two years. If a hospital project comes up that matches their experience, the hospital will contact them to see if they are still interested in helping out.

Who can apply?

You can apply to become a Patient Partner if, you have been a patient (or someone who has supported a patient, like a caregiver) or family member- in the past 2-3 years.

Step 1: Fill Out the Application Form

Start by completing the Patient Partner Expression of Interest.

Step 2: Wait for Confirmation

You will get a confirmation email within 10 business days after you apply.

Step 3: Stay on the Roster

We will keep your name on our list of interested Patient Partners for 2 years.

Not everyone who applies will be contacted to become a Patient Partner, this is because we choose applicants based on their area of care and the projects we’re working on.

Step 4: If You’re a Match

If a specific initiative needs someone with you experience:

1. We will contact you to find out if you’re still interested.
2. If you are, we will schedule a ‘Getting to know You’ interview.
3. If it’s a good fit, you will go to a welcome Orientation session.
4. You’ll be ready to start as a Patient Partner.

You decide how much time you would like to volunteer as a Patient Partner. It may be a one-time activity, such as sharing your experience. It may involve longer-term participation on a committee or working group.

Parking

Parking is free when you are at the hospital to volunteer as a Patient Partner. Your hospital contact will validate your parking pass before you leave.

Transportation

Please discuss transportation during the ‘Getting to know You’ interview to review available options.