Meet Andrea Clarkson

Member, Patient & Family Advisory Council

Joined: May 2008

Why I joined the Council ...

I believe it is important to "give back" to our community. My family and I have been patients at OMH and have found our experiences mostly positive ones. Yet, I feel that it is a positive attribute to strive towards improvement. OMH has made a commitment to do just that and I appreciate the interest it has shown in patient/family centered care.

What is the most important project or initiative the Council has helped to influence or has achieved during the time you've been involved?

During the construction of the new tower at OMH, our opinions regarding the comfort and functionality of the patient rooms were considered. We even had a chance to evaluate the furnishings for both appearance and comfort. We know hospital visits are stressful and OMH is making every effort to make each patient's experience as pleasant as possible.

What do you hope the Council achieves before your term is up?
I hope the Council continues in the direction it has begun. Continued communication regarding all aspects of care at OMH requires "hearing" the opinions of the community. We have seen our ideas incorporated. I hope to see even more.

Why would you encourage others to join the Council?

The interaction at our Council meetings is enjoyable. We listen to one another and many good ideas have resulted from this. The staff members are very receptive to the community members' input.

What do you believe makes OMH a patient and family centered care hospital?

OMH is a patient and family centered hospital because it "listens" to the patient and family members. It allows them to be an integral part of their own care.