97 MDG calls for patients, strengthen partnership program

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Breanna Klemm
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

The 97th Medical Group is soliciting Airmen, families and retirees to be a member of the Patient and Family Partnership Council at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma.

The PFPC is a program designed to help strengthen the care and support between the 97th MDG and its patients. The PFPC allows patients to provide their unique perspective to clinic management, staff, and providers about how they can make improvements towards their care.

“Here at the 97th MDG we are focused on patient centeredness. Meaning, we want our patients' voices heard, letting them know they are our primary focus, and caring for them as best as we can,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jill Tia, the 97th MDG Chief of Medical Staff. “While part of the PFPC, members will have a voice and know that it is going to be heard by us. They will be part of a working team that can make a direct impact: a team where we care about making improvements.”

Members of the PFPC will have the opportunity to provide feedback to enhance their healthcare experience provided at the 97th MDG during quarterly meetings. Members will help strengthen communication between patients and providers, promoting patient advocacy and involvement.

“We are always trying to improve the access, quality, and delivery of healthcare to our patients, while keeping them safe,” said David Benoit, the 97th MDG Chief of Quality Improvement. “The best way to do that is through this program and through the patients we care for. Members will be able to directly give clinic staff their suggestions, complaints or improvements they would like made, and we will do our best to make that happen.”

The PFPC is open to military members, spouses, retiree beneficiaries and 97th MDG staff members who are committed to pursuing patient safety and quality of life.

“One of the biggest benefits of being a part of this program is the members get to actually communicate their ideas in person, directly to staff,” said Tia. “Members are able to bring up concerns or suggestions regarding their experience, quality and safety of care at the clinic, while pointing out things from a patient's perspective that staff may be blind to.”

Members will be required to complete a 10 minute training and sign a non-disclosure agreement after the application process is complete.

If you are interested in becoming a member or have additional questions, please contact David Benoit at (580) 481-5244 or email david.j.benoit2.civ@mail.mil.