MOBILE, Alabama (July 24, 2024) — USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital recently welcomed new members to its Patient Family Advisory Council. The new and returning members include Jennifer Berry, Lindsey Brabner, Lauren Carr, Markesia Forward, Shavondria “Shavo” Jackson, Cara Lewis, Savannah Noble, Rachel Stanley, McKenzie Sullivan, Katarina Younger and Jenni Zimlich.

“We believe in the power of partnerships between our healthcare providers and those we serve,” said Debbie Browning, M.S.N., RN, CENP, chief executive officer of Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “We are excited to welcome new members to the Patient Family Advisory Council who are passionate about making a difference in patients’ lives. This is such a valuable opportunity for us to learn from each other.”

With a goal of creating better patient and family experiences, the group was established in recent years to more fully understand the needs of patients, families and caregivers who spend time at the region’s only hospital for children and women, as well as to expand communication among parents, caregivers, and hospital leadership.

“It’s so important to make sure patients and their caregivers know they have a voice in the healthcare decisions that directly impact them,” said Rachel Stanley, RN, a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit and the parent of a child with long-term healthcare needs, who serves on the council. “Our new council members have strong ties to our hospital and the community, and most have a child with complex health issues who visit frequently or see multiple providers within the health system.”

Advisory councils promote effective and respectful partnerships among patients, families, and clinical staff members while also increasing understanding and cooperation. Research shows the benefits of working with patient advisors include better health outcomes for patients, such as reductions in hospital-acquired infections and conditions, reductions in preventable readmissions and improved patient experiences.