RMH ensures the experiences of consumers and their carers effectively drive improvements in safety and quality.
One of the ways we achieve this is through consumer and carer representation on committees and working groups. The purpose of this engagement is to:
- ensure we are responsive to patient and consumer needs and priorities
- build a collaborative approach to all our service designs and improvements
- promote transparency in discussions regarding safety and quality
- invite an alternative, but equally important perspective in discussions and decision making
How well did we do?
The Royal Melbourne Hospital has active consumer and carer representation on a range of governance committees and working groups. Some are ongoing, while others have been established to achieve a specific goal, such as redesigning the RMH City Campus foyer and the Disability Working Group.
Why is this measure important?
Partnering with and empowering our patients and consumers is one of Melbourne Health’s Strategic Priorities for 2015-20. This measure is important as it helps us to track the level of consumer and carer engagement across the organisation and identify where there may be gaps and areas for improvement.
What are we doing to continue to improve?
Successful participation of consumers and carers is supported by formal training, board and executive leadership and consumer / carer commitment.
Feedback is sought from consumers, carers, the Chair and support people annually to:
- better understand how consumer engagement through participation in committees and working groups contributes to us
- identify opportunities for future development in this area.
How can you support us to increase consumer and carer participation?
If you are interested in becoming a consumer or carer representative on a committee or working group please contact Consumer Participation.
Other ways you may like to get involved include:
- completing interviews or surveys
- sharing your ‘patient, consumer or carer story’ – your experience of interacting with the hospital
- attending our annual Community Board Meeting
- participating on staff interview panels
- participating in focus groups assisting with gathering patient and consumer feedback or audits of quality measures