• Jeffrey D Schlaudecker and Keesha Goodnow.
• From the University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Cincinnati, OH (JDS, KG); Christ Hospital/University of Cincinnati Family Medicine Residency, Cincinnati, OH (JDS).
• J Am Board Fam Med. 2021 Feb 1; 34 (Suppl): S37-S39.

BackgroundIn 2016, we launched our first Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) as a means of collaborating with our patients and families to improve care. Using an Internet-based remote meeting technology, we transitioned to a virtual platform in April.MethodsWe have conducted 12 PFAC meetings across 4 sites to date. Virtual PFAC meeting topics over the past few months include communication about the coronavirus, community resources needed by patients during the pandemic, telehealth visit troubleshooting, current office policy, and changing work flow. A convenience sample of advisors generated qualitative responses on the transition from in-person meetings to a virtual platform.ResultsAttendance increased as we transitioned to a virtual platform from 13.2 advisors to 14.7 advisors. Advisors affirm the value of a PFAC and importance of patient engagement, especially during this pandemic. Patient advisors confirm the role of patient voice in pandemic-induced practice changes.DiscussionThe transition of our PFACs to a virtual platform continues to generate critically important partnerships between patients and providers. In this time of health care uncertainty and stress for patients, providers, and staff, this partnership remains our most valuable asset.ConclusionPatient voice provides reliable and relevant information for practices through virtual PFAC meetings.© Copyright 2021 by the American Board of Family Medicine.

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