Family Advisory Council
The Family Advisory Council has 25 members and is led by the Director of Family-Centered Care. The council is comprised of family members and staff at a 3:1 ratio. Family members receive a stipend. Members serve approximately a three-year term and are interviewed by the Director of Family-Centered Care and Family Faculty prior to joining the Council. The Family Advisory Council meets monthly to discuss progress towards annual goals and new areas where the Council can be of assistance. The Council collaborates with senior leadership and staff to establish annual goals that support the organization's mission and promote Patient-and Family-Centered Care.
Family Advisory Council Resources (Developed by Families for Families)
Family Faculty and the Family Advisory Council, in partnership with staff, reviewed and developed many meaningful patient and family resources. Examples include:
- FAQ What to Expect Information Sheet for all Therapy and Medical Evaluations (Audiology, Autism, Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, Feeding, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Psychiatry, Psychology, Physiatry, Rehabilitative Technology, Speech Therapy)
- Tips for Families: Discharge & Successful Transition from Therapy
- Tips for a Successful Therapy Session
- Tips for a Successful Physician Visit
- Making Therapy Work, a video
- Navigating Health Insurance, a video
- Parent to Parent Pocket Pal Guide to Health Insurance, a comprehensive health insurance resource that assists families in understanding and navigating their insurance, with information that discusses appeals, coverage and "Taking Charge & Advocating" outlines how to successfully advocate for your child by take charge of your health insurance.
- My Child was just diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder—What do I do now?
Family Advisory Recruitment
Recruitment for the Family Advisory Council is open to families of children who have or still are receiving services at Children’s Specialized Hospital. Informational Sessions are held and interviews are conducted for council positions. Please contact Pat O’Hanlon if interested by phone at 732-258-7378 or email pohanlon@childrens-specialized.org.
