Family Advisory Council

A vital link between Nicklaus Children's Hospital and the families it serves.

The FAC promotes family engagement in their child's medical care.

Menocal family takes a tour of the life flight helicopter.
Menocal family takes a tour of the life flight helicopter.

What is the Family Advisory Council?

The Family Advisory Council (FAC) was formed in 1998 and serves as an advisory committee to the Board of Directors, administration, and hospital staff. The council's mission is to work in partnership with hospital staff to promote the delivery of Patient and Family Centered Care. FAC members identify the needs and priorities of patients and families and work on annual goals that will benefit families coming to Nicklaus Children's Hospital.

The Family Advisory Council is made up of parents in the community who are actively engaged and communicating with the hospital. The Council’s role is to provide experience-based feedback to promote positive changes in the hospital. It also encourage parents to become their child’s #1 advocate through education and a fluid relationship with their care team. This empowers parents to ask questions and grow as they learn about their child’s medical needs. 

Membership

Membership consists of individuals who subscribe to the purpose and responsibilities of Nicklaus Children's Hospital Family Advisory Council. Family members are parents, grandparents, or guardians of children who have been patients.

To be eligible for membership FAC applicants need to attend three consecutive meetings as a prospective member, complete an application, meet with the Membership Liaison and be selected for membership. The council meets the third Tuesday of every month from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM with the exception of the months of July and August.

In order to maintain membership, members are asked to attend a minimum of seven meetings yearly plus the January meeting where the annual Goals are discussed. If a member is unable to satisfy the minimum attendance requirements, FAC member will need to re-apply for membership in the future.

Apply for Membership

FAC Events

Monthly Meeting
2nd Tuesday of the month (10 times a year)
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
via Teams and some in person
 
 

Responsibilities of the members of the FAC

  • Provide a vital link between Nicklaus Children's Hospital and the families it serves.
  • Provide feedback on delivery of services for all children and their families.
  • Review issues and concerns referred to the Family Advisory Council and provide recommendations to the hospital.
  • Participate in the development of guidelines and policies.
  • Assist in the planning of new facilities and services.
  • Volunteer to be on hospital committees and/or FAC projects.

Family Advisory Council Accomplishments

  • Promoted family engagement in their child's medical care
  • Developed Q.U.E.S.T (tool that encourages families to ask questions regarding care)
  • Created list of services available for patients and families while staying at Nicklaus
  • Have led activities for National Patient Safety Awareness Week
  • Led the design of the Michael Fux Family Center
  • Implemented a family awareness video/brochure on patient falls
  • Implemented family awareness brochures on pain management
  • Participated in the design of the Advanced Pediatric Care Pavilion
  • Participated in lean processes to improve communication among care providers
  • Serve as members of the Patient Safety Committee
  • Implemented of Scrappin' Moments program
  • Host the Santa video conference call event
  • Assisted in the development of the Ambulatory Surgery Information Card
  • Reviewed Nicklaus Childrens Hospital policies and procedures
  • Family Advisory Council rounding
  • Participated in the Customer Service Excellence Program
  • Speak at national conferences representing our FAC at Nicklaus Children's Hospital

Testimonials from FAC Members

Andrea hugging her daughter.“We spend a lot of time at Nicklaus Children's Hospital, both inpatient and outpatient, to work with numerous specialists. I chose to get involved with the Family Advisory Council for three main reasons. First and foremost, I want this hospital to be the best that it can be, so I'm excited to offer my insight. Second, I enjoy being able to participate in the development of new  programs – it's empowering to be able to listen to staff from various departments make presentations and they greatly value our feedback. Last but not least, my family and I enjoy the camaraderie of the other families at the monthly meetings and special events. I encourage other families to join the FAC for these reasons, and many more!”

– Andrea Abramowitz

Read More Testimonials
featured patient photo.
featured patient photo.

Stories to Inspire

The Family Advisory Council is happy to recognize the excellent service provided by Jose Gonzalez, RN. Jose delivers care to our patients and families in the PICU. This is what one of the families Jose cared for shared, “PICU BOYS Jose and Kevin are amazing angels they have such great patience. PICU is stressful, and as a parent emotions are high. These guys don't wear capes, but they should.”
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