Provincial Patient Safety and Quality Advisory Committee

Department

Authority

Remuneration

Purpose:

This Committee advises and makes recommendations to the Minister on matters relating to patient safety and quality assurance within the Provincial Health Authority.

Structure:

The composition of the Committee shall reflect the cultural, ethnic, and regional diversity of the province.

The Committee shall be comprised of:

• the Deputy Minister of Health and Community Services or designate;
• not more than 12 other members which shall include: 
  • two patient representatives;
  • not more than two officials of the Department of Health and Community Services responsible for patient safety and quality assurance;
  • one or more Vice-Presidents of the Provincial Health Authority responsible for patient safety and quality assurance;
  • one or more patient safety physicians;
  • those other persons considered appropriate by the Minister.
• the Minister appoints a member to act as chairperson.

Competency Profile:

Diversity in the backgrounds, skills and experience of appointed Committee members can enhance the effectiveness of a Committee by bringing a wider range of perspectives and knowledge. Examples may include:

• Knowledge of the Patient Safety Act
• Understanding of the role of the Patient Safety and Quality Advisory Committee
• Ability to read, analyze, and evaluate information
• Knowledge of the health care system
• Quality improvement, safety
• Assessment and analysis
• Understanding the principles of fairness; maintain confidentiality
• Understanding the principles of Just Culture
• Patient advocacy, partnerships, and collaboration
• Backgrounds: Governance, law, policy, human resources, executive experience, managerial experience, human resources, public sector administration

Qualifications:

The following attributes are important considerations in selecting the patient representatives:

• Personal experience as a patient or a family member of a patient receiving or who has received health care services
• Interest in health care
• Previous committee experience
• Commitment to continuous improvement
• Available to participate in committee meetings
• Knowledge and appreciation of patient safety issues
• High ethical standards and integrity
• Appreciation of the health authority’s responsibilities to the public
• Flexible, responsive and willing to consider others’ opinions
• Capable of a wide perspective on issues
• Comfortable speaking in a group
• Ability to listen and work as a team member
• No direct or indirect conflict of interest
• Strong reasoning and conflict resolution skills
• Effective communication skills (written and oral)

Time Commitments:

The Committee will meet at least every three months, or at the call of the Chair. Meetings are face-to-face; however, teleconference and/or videoconference services are available to members who are unable to travel, if requested.

Term:

A representative holds office for a term of three years and is eligible to be re-appointed for one additional term of three years. Where the term of office of a patient representative member expires, they continue to be a member of the Committee until re-appointed or replaced.

Vacancy Profile:

The Provincial Patient Safety and Quality Advisory Committee is seeking to fill one position to represent patients. Expressions of interest are being sought from individuals who possess the background, experience and skill set identified in the board profile above and who can bring unique perspectives to the table. Consideration will also be given to a variety of demographic factors to ensure the Committee is representative of the population they serve.