Partnerships in Medical Education

One of my most phenomenal experiences as a medical student was when I took an elective on patient-centered medical homes. It was taught by a physician as well as a family educator. . .and it was life changing because it informed how I practice as a pediatrician but also changed the trajectory of the work that I did in complex and chronic care and pediatrics, and in better informing future medical students and future residents.

Fatuma Barqadle, MD

Since IPFCC was established in 1992, it has promoted and supported the role of patients and family members in the education of health care professionals, students, and trainees. Hearing directly from patients and family members about their experiences of care and the health care system is powerful. These stories inspire and guide change and improvement and lead to better quality, safety, equity, and experiences of care. A key strategy to achieve transformation is to involve patient and families as educators and faculty in medical schools and schools of other health professions. There are a variety of ways they can collaborate, including:

Present and facilitate didactic or case-based lectures (e.g., grand rounds)
Participate on panels and in skills training workshops
Lead experiential learning opportunities as a mentor (e.g., home visiting program)
Participate in simulations
Co-design courses, resources, curriculum
Co-evaluate students’ competencies, knowledge, and skills
Serve on admissions panels for potential students

Engaging the Expertise of Patients and Families in the Education of a New Generation of Providers

In February 2022, IPFCC completed the project, Engaging the Expertise of Patients and Families in the Education of a New Generation of Providers, funded by the New York State Health Foundation. A comprehensive online training resource was developed, tested, and revised.

Whether you are a faculty member, coordinator for a patient and family advisory program, clinician, or a current or potential patient and family faculty member, this free online resource provides you with everything you need to build or expand a program at your organization.

We developed a Guide for Viewers that provides an overview of the online resource content and tips for navigating the site. Download the Guide.

cover of Prevalence and Functioning of Patients and Families as Educators

Prevalence and functioning of patients and families as educators in hospitals and academic medical centers: A national study

In 2020, Vizient and IPFCC conducted a survey of 67 health care organizations exploring the prevalence and functioning of patients and families as educators in hospitals and academic medical centers. This report shares results of the survey and highlights best practices and opportunities for improvement. Work was supported in part by the New York State Health Foundation. Read the report.