Who we are
A group of 10 diverse patient partners from across the province who work together with researchers, decision makers, and clinicians. Our goal is to improve the delivery of primary health care to British Columbians though collaboration and implementation of evidence-based innovations.

What we do
The Patient Advisory is a key stakeholder group in our Network made of 10 diverse patient partners who assist with the operations, development and leadership of the BC-PHCRN. Patients provide key perspectives that inform our Network direction and decisions. For example, the Patient Advisory was instrumental in the PRioritiEs For Research (PREFeR) project, which isolated patient-identified priorities for future primary care research in BC, and compared the importance rankings of these priorities between patients and primary care providers. Currently, the Patient Advisory will be assisting the network with passing on the results of BC-PHCRN funded research projects as well as providing input and perspective on new projects. This may include editing project results summaries, sending results to your networks/communities, participating in conferences, etc. There may also be some engagement with outside research projects as opportunities arise. Further details are here.

What we are looking for

• Individuals interested in sharing their expertise and experiences with primary health care in British Columbia (as caregiver or patient)
• English second language welcome (our communications will be in English)
• New Canadians welcome
• Urban, rural or remote location
• Comfortable attending meetings via computer or phone call

The commitment
The time commitment fluctuates throughout the year as projects/conferences begin and wrap up. On average, the commitment will be 1-2 hours/month. We meet virtually by computer or phone call. We ask that you commit to joining for a 1-year term.

The compensation
All out of pocket expenses will be covered, such as mileage, parking, bus fares, conference registrations, etc. Honorariums are considered based on a case by case basis. Once the patient partner shows interest, we would like to have a conversation on individual preference and honorariums.

Who to contact
Dr. Allison Ezzat, manager of the BC-PHCRN, is the key contact for the Patient Advisory. We schedule monthly meetings well in advance and these are guided by an agenda and summarized with minutes. Dr. Ezzat is accessible and open to regular communication with all members of the Patient Advisory.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please email Allison at info@spor-bcphcrn.ca with your brief responses to the following questions:

• Can you tell us a bit about your patient experience with primary care?
• What appeals to you about this opportunity?
• Do you have any experience sitting on advisory committees? If yes, can you tell us about it?
• What do you think is important for primary care research?