What does health mean to you?
Last August, during Hamilton’s Art Crawl, community members stopped by the Hamilton Family Health Team (HFHT) booth and shared their answers through drawings and written reflections. While visiting the booth, attendees also learned about HFHT’s free health education groups and workshops covering topics such as nutrition, medication management, mental health, and muscle and bone health. HFHT staff were also available to help people find family doctors accepting new patients in their area.
Community members were invited to express what health means to them. The result was a collection of creative and meaningful contributions that reflected the diverse experiences of our community.
“It was a wonderful experience to be at Art Crawl and see the creativity of our community come to life. We realized afterwards that this was a project we could keep going in our patient waiting room and at other events, and I’m so glad we did.” — Robyn Obermeyer, Lead Communications & Storytelling
One year later, those drawings are now displayed in one of HFHT’s waiting rooms. This community art project continues to grow, with art materials provided for patients and families to add their own contributions and enjoy a moment of clarity before meeting with their health care provider.
This display is more than an art project. It is an example of how patient voices can help shape their health care experience.
Bringing Patient Voices to the Centre of Care
In 2019, HFHT established the Patient and Family Advisory Group (PFG) to ensure the voices of patients and families are heard, valued, and included in decisions that affect patient care.
The group provides patients with the opportunity to share their experiences, insights, and ideas to help improve services and support patient-centred care across HFHT. The art mural is one example of how PFG members have helped bring new ideas of life.
“Collaborating with the Patient and Family Advisory Group is truly a privilege. Every meeting I witness the thoughtful insight, lived experience and perspectives of our advisors. This has reinforced the importance of incorporating the patient voice into care, services and resources so they are meaningful to those we serve. This partnership is the path forward.” — Francine Williams, Manager, Quality and Patient Experience
Grounded in the Patient- and Family-Centred Care Framework, ensure that patients and their family are at the centre of health care. Patients are respected as individuals with unique needs and perspectives and are treated with dignity. Patient-centred care also means that care is accessible, so the right care is provided at the right time in the right place to meet the patient’s needs.
HFHT Patients: Your Voice Matters
HFHT is currently seeking patients to join the PFG. As a member, you will help inform decisions, provide feedback, and work alongside HFHT staff to improve the care experience for patients and families.
What to expect as a PFG Member
PFG members work alongside HFHT staff to provide feedback, share experiences, and help shape programs, services, and initiatives that support patient-centred care.
- Meetings are held six times per year and may be attended in person or online
- Meetings are approximately two hours long
- Members are asked to commit to a two-year term, with the option to renew
- All members receive orientation and training
- Participation on the PFG is voluntary
How to Apply?
- Confirm that you are a HFHT patient. Check if your doctor is part of the HFHT by using this map: Find Your Family Doctor
- Apply by August 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST