The Patient Voices Network (PVN) is hosting a free orientation in Surrey on Saturday, Jan. 19. Patients, caregivers, and others living in Surrey are invited to learn how they can be a part of health care change in the province.
“The orientation session is a fantastic opportunity for participants to learn more about the Patient Voices Network and how they can help make real changes to the health care system,” says Bev Bakka, the Network’s community outreach coordinator.
The Patient Voices Network is a vibrant community of British Columbians who use their experiences to influence positive change in the health care system. Volunteers receive skill-building and support to participate in focus groups, seminars, conferences and surveys to provide the patient voice in shaping health care.
“Patient Voices Network is inspirational for me,” says Sheila Allison, a PVN member and White Rock/ South Surrey resident. “The road to a functional patient-centered health care system will probably always be a challenge, but that doesn’t mean that sustainable transformational change can’t happen. That belief sustained and inspired me for all of my working life. PVN allows me to keep that dream alive.”
Any B.C. resident can join the Patient Voices Network by signing up at www.patientvoices.ca. Those that choose to devote more time can become an “activated patient” by attending an orientation.
“After the orientation, we help connect newly activated patients to focus groups, patient advisory committees, panel discussions, conferences, and other engagements that have a direct effect on health care in our community and throughout the province,” said Bakka. “This is a great opportunity for those in Surrey to have their voices heard.”
To register for the Surrey orientation, visit www.patientvoices.ca or call 1-888-742-1772.