Blanche River Health (BRH) is calling on local residents to help improve the hospital experience—not by picking up a stethoscope, but by lending their voices. The hospital is actively recruiting new Patient Experience Partners (PEPs)—volunteers who provide vital feedback on programs and initiatives from the perspective of patients and families.

“PEPs shed light on how hospital initiatives could better meet the needs of our patients and caregivers,” said Jorge VanSlyke, BRH President and CEO. “We have many exciting projects underway, and seeking feedback from community members early in the planning stages is key to our mission of “Making healthcare work for you”.

PEPs meet several times a year to review patient handouts, provide input into accreditation planning, advise on community engagement strategies, and help promote the work of the PEP within the hospital and in the community.   

"It is a privilege to work with Blanche River Health, helping to ensure local health care reflects the needs of the community,” said James King, a PEP volunteer. 

So far, five community members have taken on this important role—but BRH wants to grow the team.

Current and recent PEP-supported projects include:

• Wayfinding Improvements: Clearer signage to help patients and visitors navigate hospital facilities more easily.
• Emergency Department Wait Time Clock: Displays real-time wait information, volumes and alternate non-urgent care options.
• Healing Spaces: Input into healing gardens and flower planter installations.
• “How Did We Do?” Feedback Program: A user-friendly way for patients to share their care experience at BRH.
• Masking Protocol Signage: A simple stop sign concept to enhance communication around infection control and masking.

PEPs are also invited to participate in key hospital committees, including Ethics, Quality and Partnership, Arts and Signage, Fiscal Advisory, and the Patient Safety and Quality Steering Committee.

Want to make a difference?

If you have lived experience as a patient or caregiver and want to improve healthcare in your community, consider joining the PEP team.

To learn more or to get involved or provide feedback on your experience, please visit blancheriverhealth.ca/feedback, email patientexperience@blancheriverhealth.ca, or call 1-866-274-7774 ext. 3202.

About Blanche River Health

Blanche River Health (BRH) is a 69-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (21 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas. Our mission is to make health care work for you. 

BRH values people and continuous improvement and we demonstrate this through accountability, respect, and courage to excel. 

Please direct media inquiries to: Communications and Public Relations

1-866-274-7774 ext. 2144 | communications@blancheriverhealth.ca